Arkansas Parents Leave 2-year-old to Die in Hot Car While Brother, 3, Dies from Severe Malnutrition

An Arkansas couple has been sentenced to 70 years in prison each for the deaths of two of their children. The tragic incidents involved a 3-year-old who died from abuse and severe malnutrition in 2024, and a 2-year-old who passed away from heat exhaustion after being left in a hot car with three siblings.

Judge Karen Whatley of the Sixth Judicial Circuit handed down the sentence to Justin Rollins and Deja Rollins after they pleaded guilty to two counts of second-degree murder for the deaths of their children. The couple also faced an additional charge of first-degree domestic battery for abusing their 4-year-old child.

The authorities were alerted to a potential child abuse case at Arkansas Children’s Hospital on July 7, which led to the discovery of the injured 3-year-old in need of urgent medical attention. The investigation expanded when police found four children trapped in a vehicle in a parking lot with temperatures reaching 92 degrees.

Despite the couple’s lack of cooperation, all the children in the vehicle were treated for heat exhaustion. Tragically, the youngest child, Jay’Dien, did not survive. The 3-year-old victim had also succumbed to severe malnutrition.

Further investigations revealed a malnourished dog at the Rollins’ residence, leading to animal cruelty charges that were later dismissed in a plea deal. In addition to the 70-year sentences for each murder charge, the Rollins received 10 years for the domestic abuse charge, to be served consecutively.

Prosecutor Jones emphasized the severity of the case and the commitment to holding those who harm children accountable. The tragic incidents underscore the importance of protecting children, with authorities continuing to prioritize their safety.