Christian Fernandez, 12-year-old Jacksonville boy, accused of murder, assault

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - Prosecutors may seek another indictment against a 12-year-old Jacksonville boy charged with beating his 2-year-old brother to death earlier this year.

State attorney said Monday the other case accuses Christian Fernandez' of allegedly assaulting another half-brother, who was 5 at the time of the alleged incident. Evidence in that case is expected to go to a grand jury Thursday.

The Florida Times-Union reports Fernandez appeared in court briefly Monday. A judge set a February trial date. His defense attorney says prosecutors have repeatedly rejected plea deals.

Fernandez is charged with first-degree murder and will be tried as an adult. He faces a possible life sentence if convicted.

His mother initially told investigators the victim was hurt in a fall. She is being charged with manslaughter by culpable negligence.