A Michigan couple is facing murder and torture charges after their 7-year-old son died in November weighing 255 pounds, prosecutors said, in a case that also led to his younger sister being placed in foster care.
Damien O’Brien, 40, and Jessica O’Brien, 41, were arraigned last week on charges including second-degree murder, torture and three counts of second-degree child abuse. One abuse count stems from the couple’s 5-year-old daughter, who was removed from the Flint home.
Casper O’Brien, who stood 4 feet, 2.5 inches tall, was nonverbal, bedridden and had severe bed sores, according to Genesee County Prosecutor David Leyton. He died of dilated cardiomyopathy, with obesity listed as a contributing factor.
In February 2024, Casper’s son weighed 104 pounds and was referred to a pediatric endocrinologist, but he never saw one, court records show. Investigators also found trash piles inside the home, and Casper was not enrolled in school.
“It’s a very, very sad and tragic situation,” Mr. Leyton said. The couple are being held without bond. A probable cause hearing is set for Thursday.
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• Michigan parents charged with murder in death of 7-year-old son who weighed 255 pounds
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