NORFOLK, Va. — The grandson of a woman who was found unresponsive on June 30 at Commonwealth Senior Living in Norfolk admitted to strangling her to death while his mother — the victim's daughter — held her down, according to court documents reviewed by News 3.
An obituary for Cleo Ann Loizides, 81, says she is survived by her daughter, Heather Ann Cummings, 53, of Indiana, and grandson Cliffton Cummings, 24, of Norfolk, who police say are now charged with second-degree murder and conspiracy to commit murder.
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Police were called to the senior home on Poplar Hall Drive just before midnight on June 30 where they found Loizides unresponsive. She was pronounced dead at the scene, and her obituary states she died on July 1.
Initially, police said her death was undetermined, but a medical examiner ruled on Tuesday, July 9 that it was a homicide.
Court documents say Cliffton strangled Loizides with the strap from a bag he was carrying while her daughter Heather held her down, telling her, "Just let go, it's for the best."
Heather Cummings confessed to the murder by strangulation, according to the court documents, and Loizides had markings on her neck consistent with strangulation.
The two planned to travel by car from Indiana to Virginia to the murder, court documents say.
Both Cummings are being held at the Norfolk City Jail without bond.
We reached out to Commonwealth Senior Living about Loizides' death. They shared the following statement with us:
"Commonwealth Senior Living at Leigh Hall is aware of the homicide charges against the daughter and grandson of one of our residents who died on June 30.
Our staff first contacted authorities following protocols when the death occurred. We have cooperated with police throughout their investigation. This is now a police matter, and inquiries about the investigation should be directed to Norfolk City police. Commonwealth Senior Living will support prosecution and accountability to the full extent of the law.
This has been a difficult time for our staff in the community, and we are offering them emotional workplace support as we continue to navigate this terrible tragedy."
News 3's Leondra Head spoke to former prosecutor and criminal defense attorney Todd Stone.
"That’s evidence that would justify a first-degree murder charge because there is premeditation," Todd Stone, criminal defense attorney said.
Stone says it's likely the second-degree murder charges will be upgraded to first-degree murder.
"Second degree murder is the default level of murder. There's first degree, second degree and manslaughter. It's pretty normal to start with second degree murder and get them into the legal system. If they find sufficient evidence for premeditation, they can increase it to a first degree which is life in prison," Stone said.
