A deeply disturbing case from Louisiana has brought attention to alleged child abuse inside a family home. A young girl’s tragic death has led to serious criminal charges against her own grandmother and mother, raising painful questions about safety, responsibility, and long-term neglect.
Details of the Case
A 57-year-old grandmother, Roxanne Record, is currently on trial for the death of her 4-year-old granddaughter, China Record. Prosecutors claim that the child died after being forced to drink a large amount of whiskey as punishment.
Roxanne Record is facing charges of first-degree murder and cruelty to a juvenile. If found guilty, she could receive a life sentence in prison without the possibility of parole. The case has shocked many people due to the seriousness of the allegations and the young age of the victim.
Mother Also Facing Charges
The child’s mother, Kadjah Record, has also been charged with murder. Authorities allege that she was present during the incident but did not step in to stop it. Her court appearance is expected later this summer.
This has added another layer to the case, as investigators look into the role each adult played in the events leading to the child’s death.
Prosecution’s Claims
During the trial, Assistant District Attorney Dana Cummings presented a troubling picture of life inside the home. According to the prosecution, the child was treated differently from other children and faced ongoing neglect and mistreatment.
Prosecutors said that basic needs like food and water were treated as if the child was “stealing.” Other children in the house were reportedly influenced to believe that the victim was doing something wrong by simply eating or drinking.
On the night of the incident, the child allegedly took a sip from a bottle of whiskey left on the counter. As punishment, prosecutors claim she was forced to consume a large amount of alcohol. After that, it is alleged that normal activities continued in the home while the child’s condition became critical.
Medical Findings and Emergency Response
Police were called to the home in April 2022 after the child became unresponsive. She was taken for medical help but sadly passed away within hours.
Officials reported that her blood alcohol level was extremely high, far beyond what an adult body could safely handle. This detail has become a key point in the prosecution’s case.
Defense Argument
The defence lawyer, Caitlin Fowlkes, argued that the case should not be treated as intentional murder. She described the incident as a tragic accident rather than a planned act.
According to the defence, there is not enough clear evidence to prove intent. The lawyer also pointed out differences in witness statements, especially from the children in the home, saying their accounts do not fully match.
She added that Roxanne Record tried to save the child by performing CPR and calling emergency services. The defence claims her actions after the incident show panic and trauma, not guilt.
Family Reactions and Past Allegations
The case has also brought forward emotional responses from family members. The child’s aunt, Ebony Record, shared that there had been concerns about behaviour in the household for years.
She admitted that family members were aware of troubling situations but did not report them. Fear and silence, she said, prevented action earlier. Her statement reflects regret and highlights how ongoing issues were not addressed in time.
