In a heartbreaking turn of events, a 2-year-old child was found unresponsive in the Winthrop home of a former Massachusetts police lieutenant who is currently facing charges of child rape and indecent assault. Unfortunately, the child has since passed away. The State Police assigned to the District Attorney's office and Winthrop police have promptly responded to the scene, as confirmed by a spokesperson for Suffolk County District Attorney Kevin Hayden.

Initial findings from the investigation suggest no signs of foul play or physical trauma regarding the child's death. However, an autopsy will be conducted to determine the exact cause of death, according to the spokesperson for the District Attorney's office.

Winthrop Police Chief Terence M. Delehanty expressed his deepest condolences to the grieving family while acknowledging the immense tragedy for both them and the first responders involved in attempting to save the child's life. Chief Delehanty stood in awe of the emotional toll such incidents take on the responders, especially when they involve children. He further praised the dedication and commitment demonstrated by doctors, nurses, and other first responders.

The former police lieutenant, James Feeley, aged 56 and a resident of Winthrop, was arraigned last month on charges of aggravated child rape and indecent assault and battery on a child younger than 14. Currently held in jail, Feeley had previously confessed to the rape and indecent assaults to Chief Delehanty and others while at a cemetery near his parents' gravesite, threatening self-harm.

Upon confession, Feeley was taken to Massachusetts General Hospital for evaluation, surrending his service weapon in accordance with court documents. The victim reported that the incidents had occurred approximately a year ago, primarily in Winthrop.

Notably, Feeley was also a foster parent under the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families. A written statement from the department confirmed that they are thoroughly investigating these disturbing allegations against him. At present, there are no foster children residing in Feeley's home, although the DCF refrained from disclosing when or if children were removed based on state and federal privacy requirements.

During his court appearance, Feeley's defense attorney emphasized his client's lack of a criminal record and highlighted his 20-year career with an unblemished record in the police department. However, the former police lieutenant was ordered to remain in custody on $200,000 bail. He also received further conditions, including no contact with the victim, anyone under the age of 16, and wearing a GPS tracking device. Feeley is scheduled to return to court next week.

This unfortunate incident serves as a reminder of the devastating consequences of child abuse and addresses the urgent need for thorough investigations and protection of vulnerable children within the foster care system. The community mourns the loss of this innocent child and awaits further developments in the legal proceedings.

[Video: Police officer arraigned on child rape charge]