The mayor of Atlantic City, Marty Small, and his wife, LaQuetta Small, the city’s superintendent of schools, are facing serious charges of child abuse and endangerment. The allegations paint a disturbing picture of physical violence and threats against their teenage daughter, spanning multiple incidents between December 2023 and January 2024. The case has sent shockwaves through the community and raised questions about the couple’s fitness to hold public office.
Atlantic City Mayor Marty SmallAtlantic City Mayor Marty Small speaks at a public event. He and his wife, LaQuetta Small, are now facing child abuse charges. (AP Photo/Wayne Parry)
The charges against the Smalls include endangering the welfare of a child, simple assault, and aggravated assault. Prosecutors allege a pattern of abuse, with specific incidents detailed in court documents. One particularly disturbing allegation involves Marty Small allegedly striking his daughter in the head with a broom, causing her to lose consciousness.
Allegations of Violence and Threats
The accusations against the Smalls depict a volatile home environment where physical violence and verbal threats were allegedly commonplace. Prosecutors claim Marty Small repeatedly threatened to “earth slam” his daughter down the stairs, grab her head and throw her to the ground, and “smack the weave out of her head.” He is also accused of repeatedly punching his daughter’s legs, leaving bruises.
LaQuetta Small, the superintendent of the Atlantic City Public School District, faces similar accusations. She is alleged to have punched her daughter in the chest and mouth, dragged her by the hair, and hit her with a belt.
Recorded Evidence and Witness Testimony
The case against the Smalls appears to be strengthened by recorded evidence. According to an affidavit obtained by The Associated Press, several incidents of the alleged abuse were recorded, seemingly without the parents’ knowledge. This recorded evidence could prove crucial in the upcoming legal proceedings.
Furthermore, the affidavit references an incident allegedly witnessed by the teenager’s grandmother. The grandmother’s alleged response to the incident, “A little punch in the eye ain’t gonna stop her,” adds another layer of complexity to the case and raises questions about the family dynamics.
The Smalls’ Response and Legal Strategy
Following the execution of five search warrants at their home in early April, Mayor Small addressed the media. He acknowledged the challenges of parenting teenagers but did not directly address the allegations. His attorney has since issued a statement characterizing the charges as an attempt to “second guess parental decisions.” The attorney maintains the Smalls are innocent and will be vindicated. The couple were issued summonses rather than being arrested, and no bail has been set.
Atlantic City, New Jersey, where the Smalls hold prominent public positions.
Impact on Public Service and Community Trust
Marty Small was appointed mayor of Atlantic City in 2019 and won reelection in 2022 with a significant majority. LaQuetta Small has been with the Atlantic City Public School District since 2003 and was appointed superintendent in 2022. These charges raise serious concerns about their ability to continue serving in these leadership roles. The allegations have shaken public trust and sparked debate about accountability and the potential consequences for their careers.
The Legal Process and Potential Outcomes
The Smalls are now facing a legal battle that will likely be closely scrutinized by the public and the media. The recorded evidence and witness testimony, including the grandmother’s statement, could play a significant role in the proceedings. The outcome of the case could have far-reaching implications for the Smalls’ personal lives and professional careers. The severity of the charges, if proven, could result in significant penalties.
Looking Ahead
The case against Marty and LaQuetta Small represents a complex intersection of family dynamics, alleged domestic violence, and public accountability. As the legal process unfolds, the community and the nation will be watching closely to see how justice is served in this high-profile case. The case also highlights the importance of addressing child abuse and supporting victims, regardless of the perpetrators’ social standing.
The charges against the Smalls underscore the need for ongoing vigilance in protecting children and ensuring their safety. This case serves as a stark reminder that child abuse can occur in any family, regardless of socioeconomic status or professional achievements.
