NC lawmakers investigating CMPD, DSS for handling of cases involving Dominique Moody

CHARLOTTE — North Carolina lawmakers are launching an investigation into the Charlotte‑Mecklenburg Police Department’s handling of past welfare checks and calls involving 6‑year‑old Dominique Moody, who was found dead in an east Charlotte home last year.

Police said the child endured severe abuse and unsafe living conditions before her death.

Dominique’s aunt, Tonya McKnight, who had legal custody, and two other women are charged with felony child abuse. Dominique’s mother has publicly said the system failed her, and her attorney claims CMPD visited the home five times in the four years leading up to the child’s death.

A state House oversight committee is now demanding all CMPD emails, videos, and reports related to Dominique or the suspects during the child’s lifetime.

CMPD has until May 7 to turn over the records. A department spokesperson told Channel 9 they are working to fulfill the request.

‘Disappointing’

Rep. Allen Chesser (R) of Nash County, a key member of the House Oversight Committee, confirms he met with Mecklenburg County DSS and says County Manager Mike Bryant has since told him there will be no more meetings.

“This development is disappointing and does not reflect the cooperative approach demonstrated by his staff in our prior engagement,” Rep. Chesser said in a statement.

Rep. Chesser and the House Oversight Committee are probing the death of 6-year-old Dominique Moody. The Moody family attorney says at least 5 DSS reports were made. The home she was living in was in disarray. Moody was found dead in a dog cage and only weighed 27 pounds. Mecklenburg County is refusing to say when DSS last visited the home.

Rep. Chesser says he is not able to share his findings yet, but he says he will do so when he is able.

“I remain committed to ensuring that our child welfare system effectively protects the most vulnerable children in North Carolina,” he said. “Preventing future tragedies like this must be a top priority, and I will continue to pursue responsible oversight on behalf of the children and families we serve.”

A spokesperson for Mecklenburg County did not immediately respond to a request for comment asking if the county is cooperating with the probe.

Chesser’s Full statement: "I am deeply saddened by the tragic death of six-year-old Dominique Moody. No child should ever endure the level of neglect and abuse reported in this case. My thoughts remain with her family and all those who loved her.

On April 17, 2026, I visited the Mecklenburg County Department of Social Services to review the processes and procedures surrounding this heartbreaking incident. I appreciated the cooperation shown by county staff during that meeting.

Unfortunately, the County Manager has since stated that the county will not facilitate any additional meetings. This development is disappointing and does not reflect the cooperative approach demonstrated by his staff in our prior engagement.

At this time, I am not in a position to release any details or findings from my assessment, as the criminal case remains ongoing and my review is still underway. I will provide further information to the public when it is appropriate to do so.

As a state representative, I remain committed to ensuring that our child welfare system effectively protects the most vulnerable children in North Carolina. Preventing future tragedies like this must be a top priority, and I will continue to pursue responsible oversight on behalf of the children and families we serve."

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