A Jacksonville couple, Deja Rollins and Justin Rollins, have been sentenced to 70 years in prison for murdering two of their children and abusing another. According to Prosecuting Attorney Will Jones, they pleaded guilty to two counts of second-degree murder and one count of domestic battery.
The verdict is related to the deaths of their 2-year-old and 3-year-old children due to severe malnutrition. The 4-year-old child suffered physical injuries but survived.
On July 7, 2024, authorities responded to a report of abuse and neglect. The 3-year-old child was taken to the hospital with symptoms of heat exhaustion, leading to the arrest of the couple.
During the investigation, police discovered that they had four children, ages 2 to 10, and they were found inside a vehicle in the hospital parking lot. Jones said this is one of the saddest cases his office has ever handled.
Jones added, their primary goal is the protection of children. local and state authorities and health officials have worked together to hold those responsible accountable.
