The trial of Atlantic City Mayor Marty Small commenced with his teenage daughter testifying against him, alleging a pattern of physical abuse. The emotional testimony unfolded in an Atlantic County courtroom on October 10, 2024, as the now 17-year-old recounted incidents where her father reportedly struck her with a belt, punched her, and even hit her with a broom.
Small, a member of the Democratic Party, faces serious charges, including child endangerment, aggravated assault, and witness tampering. Prosecutors claim these incidents stemmed from Small’s disapproval of his daughter’s relationship with her boyfriend, leading to violent confrontations. Throughout the proceedings, Mayor Small has consistently denied any allegations of wrongdoing, and his legal team has raised questions about the credibility of his daughter’s testimony.
Taking the stand, the teenager described a specific incident from January 2024. She testified that her father became upset after learning that she had sneaked her boyfriend into their home. “My dad came home and he was like, upset,” she told jurors, adding that he was “mad and disappointed” when he discovered her actions. During this confrontation, she alleged that Small hit her with a belt and punched her legs.
The courtroom was tense as the girl recounted her experiences. She described sitting in a chair themed with the Philadelphia Flyers logo, where Small allegedly struck her multiple times. In one of the more harrowing moments of her testimony, she recalled losing consciousness after her father assaulted her with a broom, only to regain awareness when he instructed her brother to fetch her water.
Defense attorney Louis Barbone challenged the validity of the teenager’s claims, suggesting inconsistencies in her statements to investigators. He argued that the injuries she reported were exaggerated and claimed they occurred during a struggle over the broom, rather than as a result of intentional harm. Barbone also pointed out that the prosecution lacked a recording of the incident, using this to bolster his argument that Small’s actions were a form of discipline rather than abuse.
The trial has included various pieces of evidence, such as Instagram messages exchanged between the teenager and her boyfriend. In one message, she expressed fear of showering due to a bruise she sustained. This evidence, along with her detailed testimony, aims to provide a clearer picture of the alleged abuse.
As the trial progresses, it remains to be seen how the jury will interpret the evidence presented. The case has drawn attention not only for the serious nature of the allegations but also for the implications of a public figure facing such accusations. The outcome will hinge on the jury’s assessment of credibility and the weight of the evidence against Marty Small.
The trial continues, with both sides preparing to present further arguments as they navigate the complex dynamics of family relationships and the legal system.
