Enfield Man Accused of Sexually Assaulting Stepdaughter Found Dead

Anthony Federline to appear in court Monday on charges of first-degree sexual assault and risk of injury to a minor

Apr. 6, 2026 at 11:10am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a single piece of crime scene evidence, such as a pill bottle or a torn piece of clothing, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, conceptually representing the serious and investigative nature of the Enfield homicide case.A stark, gritty image of a key piece of physical evidence from the Enfield homicide investigation, highlighting the serious and investigative nature of the crime.Hartford Today

Anthony Federline, 39, of Enfield, Connecticut, has been arrested and charged with first-degree sexual assault and risk of injury to a minor after police say his DNA was linked to a swab taken from his 12-year-old stepdaughter, Eve Rogers, who was found dead in the family home on March 18. Federline is due to appear before a judge on Monday in state Superior Court in Hartford.

Why it matters

The case has raised concerns about homeschooling regulations and accountability, especially in light of previous high-profile abuse cases involving homeschooled children in Connecticut. Eve's death has also prompted renewed calls for reforms to close any potential loopholes that may allow individuals to evade oversight under the guise of homeschooling.

The details

According to the arrest warrant affidavit, an investigator noticed signs that Eve had been sexually assaulted when police were called to the Elm Street home on March 18 after she was found unresponsive. The medical examiner's office performed a sexual assault kit, which identified Federline as a contributor to DNA found in a genital swab taken from Eve. Pills were also found in Eve's room.

  • On March 18, Eve Rogers was found unresponsive in the family home.
  • Federline was arrested and charged on April 6, 2026.

The players

Anthony Federline

A 39-year-old Enfield, Connecticut resident who has been charged with first-degree sexual assault and risk of injury to a minor in connection with the death of his 12-year-old stepdaughter, Eve Rogers.

Eve Rogers

A 12-year-old girl from Enfield, Connecticut who was found dead in her family's home on March 18. Her cause of death remained pending further studies as of April 6.

Melanie Federline

The mother of Eve Rogers and wife of Anthony Federline, who said she was unaware of the allegations against her husband and is cooperating with authorities while focusing on the wellbeing of her children.

John Santenella

A state lawmaker who represents Enfield and has called for amendments to Connecticut's homeschooling bill to close any loopholes that may allow individuals to evade accountability under the guise of homeschooling, particularly in cases where there has already been interaction with state agencies.

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What they’re saying

“I'm taking this very seriously and cooperating fully. Right now, my priority is my children and their wellbeing, and I'm asking for privacy as we navigate this process.”

— Melanie Federline, Wife of Anthony Federline

“There are many questions we need answered, and this is a heartbreaking situation.”

— John Santenella, State Representative

What’s next

Federline is due to appear before a judge on Monday, April 8, 2026 in state Superior Court in Hartford.

The takeaway

This tragic case highlights the need for stronger oversight and accountability measures in homeschooling, especially in situations where there are prior concerns or interactions with state agencies. It underscores the importance of ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all children, regardless of their educational setting.