Mother and stepfather convicted for death of 17-year-old Lamonica Tucker

The mother and stepfather of a 17-year-old Jackson teenager have both been convicted in her death and the abuse of two other minor children, WLBT reports. The incident highlights the devastating impact of child abuse and the importance of protecting vulnerable children.

On October 31, 2020, Jackson police officers responded to a home on Lower Drive in response to a report of an unresponsive person. Upon arrival, officers discovered 17-year-old Lamonica Tucker unresponsive with obvious signs of physical abuse. Tucker was taken to the hospital where she ultimately succumbed to her injuries. During the ensuing investigation, two other minor children in the household were examined and both children bore signs of prolonged physical abuse.

Danny Dabbs, the stepfather, pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and two counts of felony child abuse. Meanwhile, LaTiffany Chambers, the children’s mother, was convicted of capital murder for the death of her daughter and two counts of felony child abuse for the abuse of her 14-year-old son and 12-year-old daughter.

Dabbs was sentenced to 40 years for murder and 10 years for felony child abuse, totaling 50 years with the Mississippi Department of Corrections. Chambers received a life sentence in prison without the possibility of parole, plus 10 years for each count of child abuse.

The case has shaken the community and brought attention to the devastating impact of child abuse. District Attorney Jody Owens expressed his thoughts, saying, “This is the end of a truly traumatic and horrific crime of physical, mental, and sexual abuse. Our office will continue to fight for and protect all children from those that commit these acts.”