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Baby Kami's mom wants registry created for child abuse convicts

PITTSBURGH — A Mount Washington man accused of violently shaking his girlfriend’s baby shortly before she passed away is facing more charges.

According to Channel 11's news exchange partners at TribLIVE, Kenneth Reeves is now facing charges of criminal trespassing and drug possession.

Reeves has already been charged with attempted homicide, aggravated assault and child endangerment.

Police allege that Reeves violently shook his girlfriend’s 5-month-old daughter, Kami Newton. Kami later died at the hospital.

Reeves was arrested Wednesday at Covenant Church on the Hill in Mount Washington.

According to the criminal complaint, Reeves broke into the rectory without permission. Police said they found Suboxone, Xanax and other pills during a search.

In the meantime, Kami’s mother, Julie Vojtash, fought back tears on Monday, as she addressed City Council.

“I would never want another mother or another family to feel this pain,” she said.

At the time of Reeves’ arrest, he was already on probation for a child abuse case in North Versailles.

“Had I been aware, my daughter would be here. My daughter would be alive, but she isn't and her voice will not be left unheard,” said Vojtash.

Child abuse prevention advocates pointed out that such information on an individual is public record but added that creating a registry for people with child abuse on their criminal records would make it easier for parents.

“They can know that a person baby-sitting their child, or are in a new relationship with, they can check their criminal history,” said Joann Smith, a child abuse prevention advocate.

Smith and Vojtash asked City Council to create a registry similar to the Megan’s Law registry, which identifies sexual predators.

Vojtash said the registry could prevent another tragedy.

“I am asking you to help me stop this, to help these kids have a chance. My daughter didn't,” she said.

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