Brittany Mae Smith
Twelve-year-old Brittany Mae Smith was murdered by Jeffrey Easley, who was having a relationship with her mother. Her mother was also convicted of second-degree murder for failing to protect her.
On November 4, 2011, twelve-year-old Brittany Mae Smith was reported missing from her home in Salem, Virginia. Her mother, Tina Smith, initially told police that Brittany had been taken by an unknown man. However, the investigation quickly revealed inconsistencies in her story.
Evidence led police to Jeffrey Easley, Tina Smith's boyfriend, who had been living with the family. Brittany's body was found in a closet at the residence. She had been strangled and sexually assaulted.
Easley was arrested and charged with first-degree murder, rape, and abduction. He was convicted and sentenced to two life sentences plus 20 years. The investigation revealed that Tina Smith had been aware of Easley's abuse of Brittany but had failed to protect her daughter.
Tina Smith was also charged and convicted of second-degree murder for her role in failing to protect Brittany. She was sentenced to 33 years in prison.
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