A Louisiana couple has been apprehended following the tragic death of their four-month-old daughter in their Reserve residence. Angel Taylor, 24, and Chevy Lafountain, 31, were arrested on August 1, facing charges of second-degree murder, neglect, and child abuse, as reported by Sheriff Mike Tregre.
The incident came to light when deputies responded to a distress call about an infant not breathing around 9 a.m. on August 1. Upon reaching the location, a house on Northwest 18th Street, they found the lifeless body of the infant in her bed. The coroner’s office declared the baby dead at the scene.
The couple is also facing charges for the alleged mistreatment of their 13-month-old son, who showed signs of neglect and abuse. The charges include child desertion and cruelty to juveniles with force/violence. The boy is currently under state custody.
An autopsy conducted on August 2 revealed that the infant had suffered from starvation, malnutrition, dehydration, severe neglect, and child abuse. The coroner’s office stated that these factors contributed to her death.
During the investigation, the couple reportedly showed no remorse. Sheriff Tregre noted their lack of regret, stating that he had seen wild animals take better care of their offspring.
In addition to the initial charges, Taylor and Lafountain were also charged with second-degree murder. Judge Nghana Lewis set their bail at $600,000, with no option for a 10% payment.
Louisiana police believe that the couple’s drug addiction played a significant role in their neglectful behavior. The father reportedly blamed everyone but himself, including those who supplied him with drugs. The mother admitted to using drugs to the point of passing out for extended periods.