A Pennsylvania man has been sentenced to decades in prison for helping his girlfriend abuse and kill her 18-month-old daughter, prosecutors said.
Man Sentenced in Child Death Case
Maurice Davis, 34, was sentenced to 24½ to 50 years in prison after pleading no contest to aggravated assault, child endangerment, and conspiracy to commit third-degree murder in the death of Li’Aziah Thomas.
The child’s mother, Kandie Meinhart, was previously sentenced to 30 to 60 years in prison after pleading guilty to third-degree murder and related charges.
Toddler Found Dead Inside Home
Police responded to the family’s apartment in Chester, Pennsylvania, on Jan. 20, 2021, where they found Li’Aziah unresponsive on the floor.
According to investigators, the toddler had no pulse, was cold to the touch, and showed signs of rigor mortis.
Court documents stated that the child had likely been dead for several hours before police were called.
Child Suffered Severe Injuries
An autopsy revealed Li’Aziah died from blunt-force trauma that caused serious internal injuries, including damage to her liver, adrenal gland, and blood vessels.
Investigators also found bruises and knuckle marks on different parts of her body.
Prosecutors said Davis repeatedly abused the child and allowed Meinhart to continue the violence that ultimately led to her death.
Prosecutors Describe Ongoing Abuse
Authorities said three other children living in the home were also abused.
According to prosecutors, Davis punched the children in the chest and once dangled one child over a staircase.
During sentencing, prosecutors argued that Davis played a major role in weakening the toddler through ongoing abuse before the fatal assault.
Defendant Speaks During Sentencing
During the hearing, Davis apologized and told the court he was sorry for what happened.
However, prosecutors said Li’Aziah deserved justice and highlighted the severity of the abuse she suffered before her death.
