Marianna Miles, 46, Texas, sentenced Friday (Feb. 27?, 2026) to up to 70 years (parole eligible after 15) for injury to a child causing serious mental injury. Jury convicted Thursday. She abused her middle-school stepdaughter (took custody post-parents’ imprisonment for unrelated crimes).
Abuse Details (2022 Investigation)
- School Triggers: Enrolled girl at Connally Junior High (Elm Mott, near Waco). Miles claimed “severe behavior,” required constant watch/no food without approval. Staff saw polite but unkept, thin, hungry girl rummaging trash for food.
- Injuries: Oct. 2022 teacher spotted face injury; girl admitted Miles beat her with belt buckle. Alerted CPS/Lacy Lakeview PD.
- Home Findings: “Sparse” bedroom (no mattress), door alarm. Girl chained/duct-taped; held up to 20 hours (esp. pandemic). Forced brothers to beat her.
- Psych Impact: Child psychologist confirmed PTSD.
Trial and Outcome
- Miles’ Defense: Restraints due to runaways, 3 suicide attempts, sibling threat. Denied chains initially (found by CPS).
- Prosecutors (Tara Avants/Will Hix): “Evil against the vulnerable”; praised school/CPS/police as “superheroes.” Will oppose parole.
