In Syracuse, New York, the father of 4-year-old Rykelan Ross Brown appeared in court on Wednesday morning, facing charges related to his son’s death. Rykelan’s mother, MacKenzie Brown, attended the arraignment holding her son’s ashes in a heart-shaped, blue urn – Rykelan’s favorite color. She also wore a necklace with the child’s fingerprint engraved on it.

Joshua Emmons, Rykelan’s father, was arrested on Tuesday on charges of manslaughter and endangering the welfare of a child in connection with Rykelan’s death earlier in the year. He was apprehended hiding under a blanket in a basement before being taken into custody.

MacKenzie Brown, now on a difficult journey seeking justice for her son, believes Emmons should face charges of murder, neglect, and endangerment, while also calling for Child Protective Services to be held accountable for neglect.

Emmons’ bail is set at $250,000, and his next court appearance is scheduled for Monday, August 5th.