Charges dismissed for Clinton Township mother found incompetent to stand trial in daughter’s death

MACOMB COUNTY, Mich. – Charges were dismissed against the mother found incompetent to stand trial for the death of her 1-month-old daughter.

Kia Berkley, 31, was accused of shaking and throwing her infant daughter to the ground in March 2023. She was charged with murder and first-degree child abuse.

The baby was hospitalized and died nearly a month later from her injuries.

Berkley was found not competent to stand trial on Aug. 14, 2025. Her case then remained on hold as the court continued to assess her mental competency and determine whether she could eventually be restored to stand trial.

After her competency hearing on Dec. 11, her charges were dismissed nolle pros by prosecutors, which means she could be charged again if new evidence emerges.