Atlantic City, New Jersey – The Mayor of Atlantic City, Marty Small Sr., and his wife, La’Quetta Small, who is the superintendent of the city’s public schools, are facing serious allegations of physically and emotionally abusing their teenage daughter. The couple has been charged with a second-degree count of endangering the welfare of a child, as reported by the Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office. The abuse allegedly took place multiple times in December and January, including an incident where their daughter was reportedly knocked unconscious with a broom.
Marty Small, who took office in October 2019 following the resignation of his predecessor, faces accusations of threatening and physically harming his daughter, as detailed in an affidavit filed by the prosecutor’s office. The teenager, through transcripts of recorded arguments, allegedly described instances where her parents used physical force and made threats towards her.
Despite the allegations, Marty Small’s attorney maintains the innocence of the couple, stating that they will be vindicated. The Mayor, who was reelected in November 2021 for a four-year term, plans to continue serving in his official capacity.
The investigation into the abuse allegations intensified when the daughter revealed the details to school employees, prompting the school to contact the New Jersey Division of Child Protection and Permanency. Prosecutors allege that despite this notification, the division was not contacted by the school, leading to further involvement from authorities.
In a search of the Small’s residence, a letter was reportedly found in the daughter’s room, hinting at emotional distress and mistreatment. Both Marty and La’Quetta Small are set to appear in court to address the charges brought against them, which include aggravated assault, terroristic threats, and simple assault in addition to endangering the welfare of a child. The legal process will play out as the community grapples with the disturbing allegations against their elected official and his spouse.