A Pennsylvania father has been found guilty of third-degree murder in connection with the death of his premature daughter.
Joseph Gazzam, 31-year-old, had previously pleaded guilty to a homicide count, reckless and child endangerment. An Allegheny County Judge has ruled him guilty of third-degree murder.
The victim, 4-month-old Victoria, was hit multiple times in November 2017. The father's defense team said that the father was negligent and that the death can be considered involuntary manslaughter. Prosecutors have sought a first-degree murder charge.
The judge said that the suspect should have considered that his daughter was fragile due to her premature birth so that his acts cannot be considered negligence.
Gazzam's sentencing hearing was scheduled for July 18.
