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Couple sentenced for toddler’s death found in shallow grave

Stamford, CT
A mother and father were sentenced to over a decade in prison for the death of their two-year-old son. Iris Rivera-Santos and Edgar Ismalej-Gomez both pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including intentional cruelty to a child and tampering with physical evidence.

Each received a 16-year sentence in a Fairfield County Superior Court, as reported by the Stamford Advocate. Their son, Liam Rivera, was found in Cummings Park, buried in a shallow grave on January 2, 2023.

Neither parent admitted to the killing, though the medical examiner identified the cause of death as “multiple blunt force traumas to the head.” Following the plea hearing, Ismalej-Gomez’s attorney stated that his client maintains his innocence.

Rivera-Santos reportedly declined to comment after the hearing. A police investigation began with a report of the child being kidnapped, which led authorities to Cummings Park.

Stamford Police Chief Timothy Shaw stated that officers discovered fresh dirt and a plastic bag that contained the toddler. Rivera-Santos initially claimed she was kidnapped by Ismalej-Gomez following their son’s death, a story later disputed by investigators.

Text messages deleted from her phone suggested the mother’s account of being held hostage was fabricated. Rivera-Santos and Ismalej-Gomez are scheduled for a formal sentencing hearing on February 10, 2026.

Man charged with murdering father during argument in Wisconsin home

Woodville, WI

A 22-year-old man has been charged with first-degree intentional homicide after allegedly shooting his father. Ethan James Graverson is accused of fatally shooting his dad during a dispute at their residence.

Graverson called 911 around 12:45 p.m. on Friday, claiming his father was acting erratically and that he had to shoot him. When deputies arrived, they instructed him to exit the home and put down the weapon.

Graverson informed police that he shot his father multiple times, stating, “I don’t know, five, six maybe?” Officers discovered the victim slumped in a closet with gunshot wounds to his chest and groin. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

According to a probable cause arrest affidavit, investigators found five shell casings from a 9 mm firearm on the kitchen floor. The victim’s wife arrived shortly after the incident, having been grocery shopping. She noted that her son had been struggling after a breakup about a year ago but did not observe any unusual behavior on the day of the shooting.

When asked if there were ongoing disputes between her husband and son, she expressed concern over her son’s wellbeing. Graverson was taken to the sheriff’s office where he reportedly exhibited little emotion, including a smirk and a chuckle.

During the interview, Graverson recounted the events leading to the shooting. He stated that after returning home around noon, he encountered his father drinking and they began arguing about life.

Graverson claimed his father’s demeanor was condescending, prompting him to retrieve a firearm from the garage. He indicated that this was the first time he had used the gun, despite having previously picked it up.

He described his father’s attempts to de-escalate the situation by suggesting they hug and later fight “man to man.” Graverson shot his father after feeling threatened, claiming that he aimed for the center mass.

Graverson mentioned he had contemplated harming his father since he was a child. Upon learning of his father’s death, he stated, “I don’t know how to react to that.”

Graverson is currently held at the Calumet County Jail on a $1 million bond.

Warrant arrest leads to chase and drug discovery

Wilkes-Barre, PA A police patrol in the area of South Main and East Ross Streets recognized Kelcy Morgans, who had an active arrest warrant. Morgans fled the scene, prompting a brief chase.

Officers successfully apprehended Morgans after a short pursuit. During a search following the arrest, she was found with drug paraphernalia and suspected narcotics.

Morgans was subsequently transported to City Headquarters for processing and arraignment before being taken to LCCF.

Georgia woman shot ten times by ex-boyfriend during horrific ordeal

Douglasville, GA A woman survived a shooting allegedly committed by her ex-boyfriend on November 2. Shamay Pitt, 23, met with Joshua Woodruff, 25, and their conversation turned violent when he allegedly opened fire.

Pitt shared her experience with local CBS affiliate WSB to warn others in dangerous relationships. She described realizing she was being shot as the gunfire rang out, stating, “My ears are ringing, but I come into realization that he is shooting at me.”

Woodruff allegedly continued to drive Pitt for hours after the shooting, while she bled in the passenger seat. She recalled, “I seen the inside of me on the outside” as she begged him to stop so she could receive help.

Eventually, he brought her to WellStar Douglas Hospital in Douglasville. Paramedics then transported her to Kennestone Hospital for surgery.

After the incident, Woodruff was detained by hospital security and taken into custody by the Douglasville Police Department. He initially faced charges for obstruction but those were later enhanced to false imprisonment and aggravated assault.

Woodruff remains in custody at the Douglas County Jail with a bond set at $10,000. A bond hearing is scheduled for Tuesday.

Pitt continues to recover from her injuries. Her family has set up a GoFundMe to assist with her medical expenses. She urged others to recognize the signs of toxic relationships, stating, “If you see that red flag, run away.”

Man charged with murder after fatal stabbing of woman in apartment

Latrobe, PA A 54-year-old man has been charged with criminal homicide following the death of a 59-year-old woman at Loyalhanna Apartments. Glenn Whittier is accused of stabbing Pamela Puskar after she refused his sexual advances.

Whittier allegedly followed Puskar to her apartment after asking her for cigarettes. He is believed to have killed her early Saturday morning.

Puskar was found dead in her kitchen on Sunday around 8 a.m. after friends and family were unable to reach her.

Whittier was reportedly on the phone with a friend around the same time, indicating his intentions to engage in a sexual act with Puskar, who can be heard in the background saying, “You’re not touching me.”

Surveillance footage captured Whittier leaving the scene around 7 a.m. with a box in hand. An autopsy confirmed that Puskar died as a result of multiple stab wounds.

Whittier was arrested on Wednesday and denied bail. He has a criminal history, including previous assaults on women, and is scheduled to return to court on December 8. Puskar’s obituary mentions her status as a member of the Latrobe Ladies Auxiliary American Legion Post #515.

Woman sentenced for fatal crash after failing to take seizure medication

Selkirk, NY A woman was sentenced for causing a fatal collision while not taking her anti-seizure medication. Jacklyn Parker, 25, pleaded guilty to criminally negligent homicide following a crash that killed 60-year-old Colleen Selkirk on August 19.

Parker, driving on River Road, experienced an epileptic seizure that led her to cross the center line and collide with Selkirk’s vehicle. Both Parker and her passenger survived but sustained non-life-threatening injuries, while Selkirk was pronounced dead at the scene.

Prosecutors revealed that Parker had been warned by her doctor against operating a vehicle without her medication. Following the collision, it was reported that she had not taken her medication for over a week.

After entering her plea in July, Parker was set to receive her sentence in September but faced additional charges for driving while intoxicated that month, which prosecutors requested be considered during sentencing.

At the hearing, she apologized to Selkirk’s family. Katherine Giordano, Selkirk’s daughter, expressed her pain over the loss, recalling how children in the family still ask about their grandmother.

Parker received a sentence of 16 months to four years in prison, a longer term than initially anticipated.

Couple charged with child abuse after infant’s tragic death

Greenwood Township, MI

Elizabeth LynnLanor Hogan and Devin Austin Brown-Fowler are facing multiple charges following the death of their infant son. The couple is accused of second, third, and fourth degree child abuse in connection with the death of seven-month-old Maverick Lyle Bouck earlier this year.

On May 4, law enforcement responded to their residence on South 192nd Avenue. They discovered the infant unresponsive.

Initial reports described a tragic scene. Oceana County Sheriff Craig Mast remarked on the situation, expressing sympathy for the family.

Details have since emerged regarding the circumstances leading to the child’s death. Family members disclosed that the infant suffered three skull fractures, broken ribs, and a brain bleed.

The child’s grandmother indicated that one skull fracture appeared to be older, suggesting a history of abuse.

Charges against Hogan and Brown-Fowler do not include homicide, as authorities assert evidence does not support intent to harm.

On November 24, both subjects were arraigned and remain in custody at the Oceana County Jail. Hogan’s bond is set at $25,000, while Brown-Fowler’s is $50,000.

They are scheduled for preliminary examinations on December 9.

Man shoots sleeping roommate in violent St. Cloud incident

St. Cloud, MN A 31-year-old man is charged with attempted murder after allegedly shooting his roommate multiple times while he slept. Austin Gerads faces charges including second-degree assault with a dangerous weapon.

Officers responded to a residence on the 800 block of 8th Avenue South early Sunday morning at approximately 4:20 a.m. After reports of gunfire, police found two injured men, 44 and 55 years old.

The 44-year-old was reportedly shot twice by Gerads, who then assaulted the older man when he tried to intervene. Emergency medical personnel transported the shooting victim to St. Cloud Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries, while the 55-year-old was evaluated and treated at the scene.

When confronted by officers, Gerads attempted to flee on foot but was apprehended after a short chase. A handgun was recovered at the scene, believed to be used in the shooting.

According to a probable cause affidavit, the shooting victim informed authorities that Gerads accused him of having killed his daughter before shooting him. After the second shot, Gerads allegedly struck the victim multiple times.

As police arrived, Gerads reportedly fled out the back door. In addition to the firearm, officers discovered bullets, shell casings, a bloodied metal pole, and methamphetamine.

During questioning, Gerads allegedly stated his actions were “worth it,” claiming his daughter was being held captive in the basement, although police confirmed no one was inside the home.

Wisconsin man arrested for arson on Thanksgiving Day

Liberty, WI A 67-year-old man is in custody following a Thanksgiving Day fire that destroyed a neighbor’s home. Ora Wallace has been arrested on suspicion of arson, with formal charges pending from the Vernon County District Attorney.

Emergency responders received a report at 3:30 p.m. of a mobile home fire on County Road SS. No occupants were present at the residence as the family was in the process of moving out.

Firefighters from four departments extinguished the blaze, declaring the home a total loss. Damage assessments revealed destroyed walls and charred support beams.

Officials determined that the fire was intentionally set. Investigators identified Wallace as the suspect due to his proximity to the residence.

Wallace has been taken to the county jail. He is expected to appear in Vernon County Circuit Court on Monday.

All emergency personnel had cleared the scene by 6 p.m. Sheriff Roy Torgerson expressed gratitude for the first responders, citing the importance of their service during the holiday.

Details regarding the motive for Wallace’s actions have not been disclosed.

Wisconsin woman sentenced to life for boyfriend’s fatal stabbing

Appleton, WI A 40-year-old woman was sentenced to life in prison on Wednesday for the fatal stabbing of her boyfriend. Samantha Jean Krebs was found guilty of intentional homicide for the death of 35-year-old Joseph “Joey” Carnot during a confrontation in their shared apartment.

The incident occurred on June 18. Krebs stabbed Carnot in the chest and attempted to convince witnesses that he had wounded himself.

Outagamie County Circuit Court Judge Vincent Biskupic sentenced Krebs to life in prison with the possibility of parole after 36 years.

Two witnesses arrived at the couple’s apartment only to find Carnot bleeding from his wounds. One witness reported that after discovering the scene, Krebs urged him to tell the police that Carnot had stabbed himself.

Krebs expressed fear of returning to prison during the encounter with witnesses. Court records detail a history of previous convictions for offenses including battery and possession of controlled substances dating back to 2011.

Despite the evidence, including testimony that claimed she was under the influence of methamphetamine at the time, Krebs maintained her innocence throughout the trial. During her defense, she insisted she was not responsible for Carnot’s death, claiming she was shocked and focused on avoiding drug possession charges.

Prosecutors argued that Krebs had intentionally stabbed Carnot and attempted to cover it up. They highlighted her behavior immediately following the stabbing, which included kissing Carnot and telling him she loved him before she later left the apartment.

Krebs was found guilty after jurors deliberated for just over five hours. She faced intense questioning during the trial, including a moment where a prosecutor pointed out that she left her fiancé to die on the floor of their kitchen.

In her statements during the trial and sentencing, Krebs expressed confusion over her culpability and asserted that she did not deserve such a severe sentence. Judge Biskupic rejected her claims of innocence, insisting that her narrative was not credible.

Man sprays bear mace on deputies and K-9 during arrest attempt

Vero Beach, FL

A Florida man was arrested after allegedly spraying several sheriff’s deputies and a K-9 with bear mace. Kyle Young, age 31, faces one count of resisting an officer without violence and eight counts of battery on an officer, firefighter, or EMT.

The incident occurred on Saturday along Old Dixie Highway. A deputy attempted to serve an arrest warrant on Young, who fled into the woods upon being ordered to stop.

As officers approached him, Young reportedly pulled out a canister identified as bear repellent spray. He resisted orders from deputies to get on the ground and instead ran into an open parking lot, prompting the deployment of the K-9 to aid in compliance.

When the K-9 made contact, Young allegedly used the bear spray, causing irritation to multiple deputies, including the K-9.

In response, a deputy deployed a taser to gain compliance, leading to Young’s arrest. Upon falling to the ground, deputies discovered a firearm near Young’s arm, which was secured for safety.

Several deputies received treatment for chemical exposure at the scene. Young was taken to a local hospital for evaluation before being booked into the Indian River County Jail, where he is held on a $57,500 bond. He is scheduled for an arraignment on February 20, 2026.

Mother arrested for allegedly killing adopted daughter in Michigan

Muskegon, MI – A 55-year-old mother has been arrested following the death of her 11-year-old adopted daughter. Sherry Leak is charged with one count of manslaughter in connection with the incident.

Emergency services responded to a report of an unresponsive child at the Clover Estates Mobile Home Park. Upon arrival, responders found the girl without signs of life and efforts to resuscitate her were unsuccessful.

Leak was taken into custody at the scene by police as they began their investigation. The Muskegon County Prosecutor’s Office reported that an autopsy on the child was conducted, and further details about the incident will follow.

A 911 call made by Leak indicated that there had been a physical altercation prior to the child’s death. According to Deputy Police Chief Gregory Poulson, the mother attempted to restrain the daughter during the incident.

During her arraignment in Muskegon County District Court on Tuesday morning, prosecutors outlined allegations against Leak. Chief Trial Attorney Matt Roberts stated that evidence suggests Leak’s actions directly resulted in the girl’s death.

Further investigation is ongoing, and Child Protective Services has filed a petition to remove parental rights from Leak concerning her surviving twin daughter. The surviving child is reported to have been hospitalized after Mialah’s death.

Leak remains in the Muskegon County Jail with a bond set at $100,000. She is scheduled for a court appearance on December 9 for further proceedings.

Neighbors have commented on the contentious relationship between Leak and her daughter, noting frequent altercations. Some have expressed concerns regarding the family’s dynamics within the mobile home community.

Man in court outburst after punching church volunteer in Ohio store

Martins Ferry, OH

Zachary Heckathorn, 33, faces charges of assault, criminal trespass, and aggravated menacing following an incident at a church-run free store. The charges stem from a disturbance he allegedly caused on November 14 at Rethreads, located on Hanover Street.

Heckathorn was reportedly escorted from the store by a volunteer after creating a disturbance. Just after 10 a.m. that day, he allegedly returned and attacked the volunteer, striking him between 10 and 15 times before fleeing down an alley.

Witness descriptions helped police apprehend Heckathorn approximately two blocks from the store. He has been held at the Belmont County Jail since his arrest and appeared at a hearing via video feed while wearing an orange inmate’s uniform.

At this week’s hearing, attorneys for both sides requested a continuance. Heckathorn expressed frustration, asserting his desire to defend himself and demanding an immediate trial.

He stated that he did not believe his lawyer was competent and rejected any representation. He characterized the allegations against him as hearsay and insisted on his innocence as the hearing progressed.

Despite being warned to refrain from disrupting the proceedings, Heckathorn’s outbursts continued, contributing to a chaotic atmosphere in the courtroom.

Heckathorn is scheduled to return to court for trial on December 12.

Couple arrested after violent confrontation on school bus

Greenwood, IN A couple was arrested after allegedly attacking children on a school bus in Greenwood. Donquarious Ridley, 27, and Raven Barner, 25, were charged on Monday with multiple counts of battery on a child.

The incident occurred on the morning of October 31 when Ridley and Barner boarded a school bus to confront children purportedly bullying their son. Witnesses reported seeing the couple shout at the children and initiate a verbal altercation.

According to a probable cause affidavit, school bus camera footage captured the entire incident. The video reportedly showed Barner confronting two children and threatening physical violence.

At one point, Barner allegedly encouraged her stepson to engage in a fight. The bus driver intervened but was later struck by Barner while trying to protect the children.

Ridley was also seen on the footage urging his son to fight back. Following the altercation, Ridley allegedly threw one child to the ground and pushed another back into a bus seat.

Police located Ridley and Barner while they were driving and initiated a traffic stop. They were subsequently arrested and booked into the Johnson County Jail.

Both individuals face charges related to battery on children under the age of 14. Ridley also faces charges for contributing to the delinquency of a minor.

Ridley is scheduled to appear in court on December 1, while Barner will appear on December 4. Neither appeared on the Johnson County Jail roster as of Tuesday.

Dad calls cops to remove son after demanding food

Orangeburg, SC A South Carolina father faces charges for unlawful conduct toward a child after he allegedly called law enforcement to remove his 11-year-old son from their home. Thomas Baker, 44, made the call on Saturday while reporting that his son was being unruly and not listening.

Upon investigation, deputies learned Baker threatened his son when the boy asked for something to eat. According to the Orangeburg County Sheriff’s Office, the child received a hostile response, including explicit threats.

The child then reported additional comments from Baker, which escalated to violent suggestions about self-harm. Baker allegedly stated, “If you are on fire, I’ll pour gas on you so you burn even more.”

The Orangeburg County Sheriff Leroy Ravenell remarked on the situation, referencing a biblical verse about parental responsibilities, stating the child “didn’t even get a stone” when asking for help. The incident reportedly was captured on video, now part of the investigation.

Following the events, the child has been placed with a family member for safety. Baker remains charged pending further legal proceedings.

Headline: Trio arrested for brutal murder of 62-year-old uncle in Colorado

Fruita, CO

Three individuals face multiple charges for the alleged murder of a 62-year-old man in Fruita. Weston Owen and Sarah Bess, both 18, along with 21-year-old Kellar Weisgerber, are charged with first-degree murder, tampering with physical evidence, abuse of a corpse, and conspiracy.

The Fruita Police Department began investigating a suspicious incident in the 21 Road desert area on Saturday. According to an arrest affidavit, the group was with the victim, John Krabbe, at a local bar prior to the incident.

Owen reportedly perceived a threat when he observed Krabbe touch Bess’ neck. Following this incident, Owen contacted Weisgerber to assist in a plan to harm Krabbe.

The trio waited until Krabbe fell asleep before executing their plan. Owen allegedly struck Krabbe with a flashlight while Weisgerber restrained him, leading to Krabbe’s death.

Afterward, Weisgerber allegedly bound Krabbe’s hands and feet and loaded the body into Krabbe’s vehicle. The suspects then drove to a remote desert location where they disposed of the body.

According to officials, they also attempted to destroy evidence by burning items stained with the victim’s blood. Bess reportedly contacted her mother, alleging that Owen threatened her and encouraged her to call authorities.

A judge set bonds for Owen, Bess, and Weisgerber at $2 million each. Their next court appearance is scheduled for December 5.

Couple charged for squalid conditions where children found living in filth

Chattanooga, TN A couple faces charges for allegedly neglecting two children found in deplorable living conditions. Leon Woods, 65, and Carol Phillips, 36, are each charged with child neglect after a wellness check by law enforcement.

On November 21, police responded to a call about an argument between the adults. They could not access the front door due to tables blocking the entrance and had to knock on a window to gain entry.

Once inside, officers were met with an overwhelming stench and unsanitary conditions. Reports indicate that roaches infested the home, including crawling on food in the refrigerator and on furniture.

Officers observed one child in a diaper on the floor, which was also infested with roaches. A second child, just one year old, was found lying face down on a dirty mattress.

The house reportedly contained dangerous items such as a sharp metal gate and exposed nails. Neighbors expressed concern about the children’s welfare and indicated that police had been called to the residence multiple times prior to the arrest.

One neighbor reported screaming from the children and filed two child abuse reports in recent months. Court records show that Woods and Phillips are scheduled for a court date on December 5.

Woods is registered on the Tennessee sex offender registry due to previous offenses and faces additional charges for violating his supervision conditions.

Mother arrested for child abuse and starvation in Missouri

Columbia, MO

A mother has been arrested for allegedly abusing and starving her child in Missouri. Breashia Jwantae Grant was taken into custody on Friday after being charged with felony first-degree endangering the welfare of a child and felony third-degree domestic assault.

The Boone County Sheriff’s Department received multiple calls on Friday around noon regarding a child who appeared to be hiding from passing vehicles. Upon arrival, deputies found the child, who reported running away due to physical abuse.

The child stated that Grant struck them with a phone charging cable more than ten times. The victim displayed injuries on the arm, including swelling and scarring consistent with repeated abuse.

The child said that Grant had used food deprivation as a punishment, claiming they were not fed for five days two weeks prior and for two consecutive days earlier that week.

Currently, Grant remains in Boone County Jail without bond, and her next court appearance has yet to be scheduled.

Husband killed in alleged road rage crash as wife chased him down

Konawa, OK

A woman faces charges after allegedly running her husband’s vehicle off the road, resulting in his death. Tamara Lachelle Wood, 37, has been charged with second-degree murder and reckless driving after the incident involving her husband, Justin Wood, 40.

Officers responded to a crash on Highway 59 at approximately 3:30 p.m. on Wednesday. They discovered Justin Wood next to a heavily damaged 2005 BMW SUV, where he was pronounced dead at the scene.

The investigation revealed that Tamara Wood drove a 2007 Volvo XC-90 and told troopers that both vehicles were traveling at high speeds. She explained that an argument had occurred at their son’s basketball game regarding her husband’s conversations with another woman.

Witnesses reported that Tamara’s vehicle closely followed Justin’s moments before the crash, with one estimating their speed to be over 100 miles per hour. Justin’s mother stated he had been contemplating divorce and received a desperate call from him saying, “Momma, she’s trying to run me off the road!”

Following the incident, the District 22 District Attorney’s Office issued an arrest warrant on Friday, with Tamara being apprehended on Tuesday. She is currently held in the custody of the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office.

District Attorney Erik Johnson indicated that they will pursue accountability for her actions that led to Justin Wood’s death. The couple leaves behind four children who now face the loss of their father.

Father risks children’s lives during harrowing hike in Utah mountains

Salt Lake City, UT A father is facing serious legal consequences after leading his three young children on a dangerous hike in Utah’s Wasatch Mountains last month. Micah Smith, 31, is charged with multiple counts of child torture and aggravated child abuse, according to the Salt Lake County District Attorney’s Office.

The incident occurred in early October when Smith took his children, ages 2, 4, and 8, on the Broads Fork Trail, a hike rated “hard” within the hiking community. The trail is located in Big Cottonwood Canyon, approximately 12 miles southeast of Salt Lake City.

Disregarding the conditions and safety warnings, Smith continued the hike despite requests from his wife and children to turn back. The situation escalated when inclement weather, including rain and snow, set in, leaving the family stranded for the night.

The family began their trek around 10 a.m. on October 11, with Smith initially describing the hike as either nine miles or a nine-hour journey. Smith prepared by providing snacks and beverages but failed to provide adequate support for the grueling conditions they faced.

Within a short time, the children expressed fatigue and discomfort. Smith’s daughter reported that the snacks were quickly consumed and that they struggled with difficult terrain that required climbing.

As the weather worsened, Smith’s daughter voiced her fear and suggested they leave, but Smith allegedly dismissed her concerns, saying it was a “once-in-a-lifetime” experience.

By nightfall, the family attempted to descend the mountain, but it was too late as the snow and hail intensified. They sought shelter around 8 p.m., where the children reportedly experienced severe cold and distress.

The 8-year-old later recounted the freezing conditions and described an effort to keep her younger siblings warm. Police reports indicate that one child fell and became unresponsive, while the other required constant monitoring throughout the night.

When a Search and Rescue team located Smith the following day, he exhibited unusual behavior and made alarming statements about his children’s condition. Despite fears for their lives, all three children were found alive, one in critical condition requiring immediate medical intervention.

Investigators discovered alarming communications on Smith’s phone indicating awareness of the children’s deteriorating state. The situation raises serious questions about Smith’s judgment and responsibility as a parent.