US soldier, partner face murder charges in child's death
Prosecutors say neglect led to child's death and dog's starvation
U.S. soldier and his girlfriend have been charged after prosecutors accused them of starving their young son to death while living in military housing at Fort Benning, Georgia. The couple also allegedly neglected three family dogs, including one that authorities say died from starvation.
A federal grand jury returned an eight-count indictment against Ladarrion McCray, 23, of Georgia, and Emma Bradshaw, 22, of Nevada, on July 14. According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Georgia, the pair face charges including felony murder, cruelty to children, making false statements and animal cruelty. If convicted, they could each face life in prison.
Prosecutors allege child was deprived of food
According to the indictment, McCray and Bradshaw allegedly deprived their son, identified in court records only as “L.M.,” of necessary food between Jan. 14 and Jan. 28 while living at Fort Benning. Prosecutors allege the neglect resulted in the child’s death.
Authorities also claim the couple falsely told special agents with the Department of the Army Criminal Investigation Division (CID) that their son had shown no signs of illness before he died. The child’s age has not been publicly released.
The Army CID had not commented on the case at the time of publication.
Couple also accused of neglecting family dogs
The indictment further alleges that the couple failed to provide adequate food, water, ventilation and sanitary living conditions for three family dogs — a dachshund, a hound and a Doberman.
Prosecutors say the dachshund died from starvation and its body was later found in a trash bin outside the couple’s home. The two surviving dogs were reportedly discovered in a severely malnourished condition.
Couple deny charges as soldier faces discharge
Court records show both McCray and Bradshaw pleaded not guilty to the charges. They were each released on a $10,000 unsecured bond while the case proceeds.
According to prosecutors, McCray was an active-duty soldier who had recently been transferred to Fort Benning at the time of the alleged offences. The U.S. Attorney’s Office said he is now undergoing discharge proceedings from the Army because of the allegations.
Attorneys representing McCray and Bradshaw did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
