Arkansas Parents Sentenced to 70 Years After 2-Year-Old Son Dies in Hot Car
In a harrowing case that has drawn national attention, Deja and Justin Rollins of Arkansas have been sentenced to 70 years in prison following the deaths of two of their young children under circumstances of severe neglect and abuse, according to reports.
On July 7, 2024, the couple brought their 3-year-old child to Arkansas Children's Hospital in Little Rock for urgent medical treatment related to abuse and neglect. While at the hospital, they left their other four children—aged 2, 4, 7, and 10—locked inside a car in the hospital's parking lot amid sweltering temperatures. Hospital security discovered the children suffering from heat exhaustion; tragically, the 2-year-old, Jay'Dien Rollins, succumbed to heat-related injuries the following day.
Investigations revealed that the 3-year-old's condition was due to severe abuse and malnutrition, leading to a charge of first-degree domestic battery against the parents. Further examination of the Rollins' home uncovered additional signs of neglect, including a malnourished dog. Although the couple initially faced animal cruelty charges, these were dropped as part of a plea agreement.
Pulaski County Prosecuting Attorney Will Jones described the case as "one of the most disturbing and heartbreaking our office has ever encountered," emphasizing the commitment to holding individuals accountable for harming children.
The Rollins each pleaded guilty to two counts of second-degree murder and one count of first-degree domestic battery. Their sentences—30 years for each murder count and 10 years for the domestic battery charge—are to be served consecutively, totaling 70 years in prison.
This case underscores the critical importance of vigilance in child welfare and the severe consequences of neglect and abuse.
