CLERMONT, OH—Tamara Banks, a 41-year-old Ohio mother, has been sentenced to between nine and 13.5 years in prison after pleading guilty to involuntary manslaughter. The sentencing follows the tragic death of her 4-year-old daughter, Karmity Hoeb, in January 2022, who died from complications related to diabetes and severe dental decay.

Banks was accused of feeding her daughter baby formula mixed with Mountain Dew, a practice which ultimately led to the child’s death and the dissolution of her teeth. The case drew significant attention due to the unusual and hazardous feeding practice. Christopher Hoeb, 53, the child’s father, also pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter and awaits sentencing scheduled for June 11.

During the sentencing at Clermont County Common Pleas Court, Judge Victor Haddad criticized the lack of basic parenting skills displayed by the defendants.

“It’s hard to be a good parent but you expect at least mediocre parents, everybody should expect that,” remarked Judge Haddad. The assistant prosecutor, Clay Tharp, highlighted the severe neglect Karmity suffered, citing “baby bottle caries” as evidence of her poor care.

This condition, a type of tooth decay, was exacerbated by the daily consumption of a sugary soda through a bottle.

The details of Karmity’s suffering were further emphasized during the court hearing, with local media and residents following the case closely.

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