Full Breakdown
Atlantic City Mayor Marty Small Acquitted of Child Abuse Charges
12/19/2025, 1:14:50 PM
Overview of the Trial and Verdict
Atlantic City Mayor Marty Small Sr. was acquitted on December 18, 2025, of all charges related to allegations of child abuse against his teenage daughter. The jury's verdict followed a week-long trial during which Small faced serious accusations, including aggravated assault, endangering the welfare of a child, making terroristic threats, and witness tampering. The trial concluded with a not guilty verdict after the jury deliberated for two and a half days.
Allegations and Testimonies
The prosecution alleged that Small physically abused his daughter, including an incident where he reportedly struck her with a broom, causing her to lose consciousness. Testimony from the now 17-year-old daughter included claims that Small punched her and threatened to "earth slam" her down the stairs during arguments. The prosecution also argued that Small attempted to persuade his daughter to alter her account of the events to protect himself.
In contrast, Small's defense maintained that the allegations stemmed from a family dispute rather than criminal conduct. His attorney, Louis Barbone, argued that the daughter had exaggerated her injuries and that inconsistencies existed in her statements to authorities. The defense portrayed Small as a concerned father facing challenges with a rebellious teenager, particularly after she began dating a boyfriend described as controlling.
Reactions to the Verdict
Upon hearing the verdict, Small expressed gratitude, stating, "Thank you, Jesus, thank you, jury," and described the outcome as a victory for the entire Atlantic City community. He emphasized his commitment to his role as mayor and his desire to rebuild his relationship with his daughter, who he acknowledged was "lost right now."
Atlantic County Prosecutor William Reynolds expressed disappointment with the jury's decision but respected the judicial process. He highlighted the importance of giving victims a voice, stating, "This jury chose to not believe that voice," and urged compassion for the family.
Political Context and Implications
Marty Small, who was recently reelected with a significant margin, faced the trial amid ongoing political scrutiny. He suggested that political motivations influenced the case against him, asserting that "there's a lot of political forces out here that are against the leadership of my wife and I." His wife, La'Quetta Small, the superintendent of Atlantic City Public Schools, is facing separate charges related to the same allegations and is scheduled for trial in January 2026.
The case against Small has drawn attention not only for its serious nature but also for its implications on his political career. Had he been convicted, he would have been required to resign from his position as mayor.
Conclusion and Next Steps
With the acquittal, Small is set to continue his term as mayor, emphasizing his intention to focus on family and community. The legal proceedings surrounding his wife and the former principal of Atlantic City High School, Constance Days-Chapman, who is also facing charges for failing to report the abuse allegations, remain ongoing. The outcome of these cases will be closely monitored as they unfold in the coming months.
