A deeply disturbing child abuse case has led to multiple guilty pleas after a 10-year-old boy died following prolonged mistreatment.
Joshua Smith, 35, has admitted to the murder of his son, Braxtyn Smith, after what authorities describe as a period of severe abuse that left the child malnourished and fatally injured.
According to reports, Braxtyn became ill and began vomiting before being rushed to the hospital by his mother and grandmother. When he arrived, he had no pulse and was later pronounced dead.
Medical observations noted that the child’s vomit had the appearance and odor of pet food.
Investigators uncovered evidence that Braxtyn had been subjected to extreme conditions inside the home.
Witness statements indicated he was at times restrained to a chair with zip ties, with his ankles secured to a container and his hands bound behind his back — including while sleeping or using the bathroom.
A person living in the home told police the child sometimes slept on the bathroom floor and had been given dog food to eat.
The case has also resulted in charges against other family members.
Braxtyn’s mother, Jem Bean, 37, pleaded guilty to manslaughter in February.
His grandmother, Mistie Latourette, 59, also pleaded guilty to manslaughter days before her scheduled murder trial.
The case has drawn widespread attention due to the severity of the abuse and the involvement of multiple adults responsible for the child’s care.
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