TORONTO – Two people accused of killing seven-year-old Katelynn Sampson have pleaded guilty to second-degree murder in the child’s death.
Toronto couple, Donna Irving, 33, and her boyfriend, Warren Johnson, 50, were Katelynn’s legal guardians four years ago when the child was found dead in their west-end apartment on Aug. 3, 2008.
Irving had called 911 saying that Katelynn had choked on food, but when emergency officials arrived, they noted signs of severe physical abuse.
One officer said Katelynn’s injuries were the worst he’s seen in his 20-year career. Autopsy results showed that she had 70 wounds across her body when she went into shock and died.
Katelynn’s mother asked Irving to take care of her daughter while she focused on getting her life back on track as she grappled with drug addiction.
Irving and Johnson have been sentenced to life in prison with no chance of parole for 15 years. However, both have been in jail since August 2008 and with time served, they will be eligible for parole in 11 years.
Global Toronto crime reporter Catherine MacDonald is live tweeting from the trial.
Warning: Testimony may include graphic content.
Comments