Warren County woman sentenced for child neglect

VICKSBURG, Miss. (VDN) — A Warren County woman has been sentenced on a charge of child neglect.

Morgan Hollowell appeared before Judge James Chaney on Friday and was sentenced to five years in prison, with four years to serve. She was also ordered to undergo drug and alcohol treatment.

Hollowell, represented by attorney Lee Thames, pleaded guilty in early April. Assistant District Attorney Branan Southerland represented the state.

According to court testimony, Hollowell was accused of using drugs in the presence of a child. Both Hollowell and the child tested positive for methamphetamine.

Thames told the court that his client became involved with a bad group of people. He said the child was removed from the home and Hollowell was arrested during a youth court hearing. Thames added that Hollowell had since obtained a job and that Child Protective Services was preparing to recommend reunification with her child before the Warren County Sheriff’s Office intervened.

Thames also said Hollowell has shown remorse, complied with CPS requirements and has remained sober.

Southerland argued that the child had been living in poor conditions and initially could not be interviewed. He requested the maximum five-year sentence.

Chaney noted that the state had already shown leniency by reducing the charge from child abuse to child neglect.