Jackson County Judge J. Dale Youngs on Friday sentenced Jacole Prince, whose daughter LP was found malnourished and locked in a closet, to 34 years in state prison, the maximum sentence recommended by a jury in November, Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker announced today.
Youngs noted that the jury, during sentencing deliberations, asked whether sentences would be set to run concurrently or consecutively. They chose sentences with the understanding they might be set to run consecutive. In turn, Youngs set them consecutively -- 20 years on Assault in 1st Degree, seven years on Abuse of a Child and seven on Endangering the Welfare of a Child in the 1st Degree.
"A hero came to the aid of LP by making a call to the hotline alerting authorities of possible abuse,” Baker said in a statement this evening. “I am so grateful for that call. That call saved her life. This beautiful child is now living a full and happy life. Thanks to all the heroes among us."
Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Trisha Lacey and Baker prosecuted the case on behalf of the state of Missouri.