Former Phoenix police detective accused of child abuse, murder

PHOENIX (KSAZ) - A former Phoenix police detective is facing murder charges in connection with the death of his daughter.

Germayne Cunningham served on the force for more than a decade. He resigned in September. He, along with his wife, Lisa, are accused of abusing and ultimately killing his 7-year-old child, Sanaa.

Germanyne and Lisa each face 10 counts of felony child abuse and one count of first degree murder.

Sanaa died in February.

A Go Fund Me account was set up for the family, and on the page, it was stated that Sanaa suffered from mental health issues, which contributed to her death. The campaign raised over $8,000, however, Goodyear Police suspected foul play was involved in the girl's death.

Now the Cunninghams are accused of abusing the child on several occasions going back to July 2016. According to the indictment, Sanaa was forced to stay in the family's backyard, patio or confined to the garage, restrained with zip ties.

The couple is also accused of not seeking medical care for Sanaa's injuries.

Germanyne and Lisa are not in custody at this time, even though they're indicted on murder charges. There is a summons for them to appear in front of a judge, on January 2.

AP: DCS had multiple dealings with Sanaa Cunningham's family

On Tuesday, the Associated Press reported the Department of Child Safety (DCS) had multiple dealings with Sanaa's family before her death, but didn't have enough evidence to legally justify removing the child from her home.

According to the AP, DCS officials released a preliminary report released on Sanaa's death Tuesday.

The Associated Press (AP) contributed to this report.