Robert White pleaded not guilty to multiple charges of assault and child endangerment for allegedly beating 3-year-old Kyng Davis last month. The two-page criminal complaint says that on Feb. 22, 38-year-old Robert White slapped 3-year-old Kyng in the face with an open hand, more than 10 times.

White’s cousin, Nikita Nash, told police she heard the loud blows and had to intervene to stop the attack. The complaint also states that Nash saw White holding Kyng’s face while the child cried hysterically, complaining of pain to his face. Nash reported the Feb. 22 assault to police on March 10, just one day after Kyng was pronounced dead at SUNY Downstate Hospital. Kyng was brought there unconscious and unresponsive on Sunday.

News 12 went to Nash’s home Thursday, but she refused to answer any questions. The medical examiner said they will need to conduct further investigation to determine the cause of death, following the initial examination. White is the boyfriend of Kyng’s mother, Sunshyne Davis. Some people have taken to social media to threaten Kyng’s mother, though she has not been charged with any crimes. Robert White is due back in court on Friday.