Opening statements in trial of South Pasadena father accused of murdering his newborn son

SOUTH PASADENA, Calif. (KABC) — Cash Richmond was only seven weeks old when, according to prosecutors, he was flown by helicopter to UCLA Mattel Children's Hospital because of his father's actions, where he later died.

This was 137 days after the newborn was admitted to the hospital.

An autopsy found the boy died of “multiple blunt traumatic injuries,” and his death was ruled a homicide. Opening arguments began Monday in the murder trial of Cash's father, Christopher Richmond.

“When Cash had just opened his eyes to the world, he was abused,” said prosecutor Brian Rosenberg. “It started with breaking his ribs. When Cash was six weeks old, it escalated to breaking his neck.”

Rosenberg said that in September 2022, Cash suffered from a “rapid lack of oxygen in his body.”

“Asphyxiation…he was asphyxiated,” Rosenberg said.

Prosecutors said Cash was with his father in the back of a South Pasadena estate while his mother, Candice Blauuw, was at work. Then the father called Blauuw for help.

“He says, 'Cash choked on some milk and isn't breathing,'” Rosenberg said. “Candice responds like any reasonable person: 'Did you call 911? Are the paramedics on the way?' … No, I called you first.'”

“He calls Candice and then calls 911. The conclusion is: I want the quickest treatment possible for my child and I know that Candice will be home in a minute or two with the only car we have,” said defense attorney Michael Hawkins.

Cash died in hospital when he was just six months old.

“The prosecution has presented the following list of what they believe the evidence will show about this violent, aggressive monster who intentionally [6-month-old] and there will not be a shred of evidence to support any of this,” Hawkins said.

Christopher Richmond was initially charged with child abuse before being charged with murder following Cash's death. His trial is scheduled to end on October 4.