Alabama Mother Charged with Murder After Death of 12-Year-Old Daughter with Cerebral Palsy

An Alabama mother has been charged with felony murder following the death of her 12-year-old daughter, who had cerebral palsy. Investigators allege that the child suffered prolonged and extreme medical and physical neglect before her death.

Leslie Denise Wilson, 35, was arrested on September 28, 2026, after authorities investigated the circumstances surrounding her daughter’s death in Gadsden, Alabama.

The case initially came to the attention of police as a reported natural death. However, concerns about the child’s age and the circumstances led the Gadsden Police Department’s Juvenile Unit and the Alabama Department of Human Resources to launch an investigation.

According to a criminal complaint cited by PEOPLE, Wilson allegedly subjected her daughter to ongoing and extreme neglect between May 1 and June 17, causing serious physical injury that ultimately led to the child’s death.

Investigators Describe the Child’s Condition

During a court hearing, Detective Alec Burgess of the Gadsden Police Department’s Major Crimes Division described the condition in which he found the girl.

According to testimony reported by local media, the child had visible marks on her body and live maggots inside her diaper. Investigators also described her as severely malnourished and dehydrated, with pneumonia.

The girl reportedly weighed just 32 pounds and relied on a feeding tube. Detective Burgess further testified that the child’s younger siblings had been helping care for her, despite limited food being available in the home.

Authorities have not publicly identified the girl, citing the sensitive nature of the case and her age.

Autopsy Determines Cause of Death

An autopsy found that the child died from sepsis, a potentially life-threatening response to infection. The medical examiner classified her death as a homicide, according to investigators’ statements in court.

The findings prompted authorities to pursue a felony murder charge against Wilson. Prosecutors allege that the neglect described in the complaint contributed to the child’s death.

The allegations remain part of an ongoing criminal case, and Wilson is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.

Judge Denies Bond as Investigation Continues

A hearing under Alabama’s Aniah’s Law was held after Wilson’s arrest. The law allows judges to deny bail in certain cases involving serious violent offenses, including murder.

Etowah County Judge Joe Nabors denied bond, and Wilson remained in custody as the investigation continued.

Officials have described the case as deeply distressing for those involved. Etowah County Assistant Coroner Dantez Robinson expressed sympathy for the family and acknowledged the emotional impact the investigation has had on law enforcement personnel.

Authorities have not released the child’s name, and the investigation remains active.

A Case That Raises Urgent Questions About Child Protection

The death has raised serious questions about the care and protection of a medically vulnerable child. Investigators are continuing to examine the circumstances leading up to the girl’s death and the allegations outlined in the criminal complaint.

For now, the legal process will determine whether the prosecution can prove the charges against Wilson. The case also underscores the importance of recognizing signs that a child may be experiencing abuse or neglect and reporting concerns to the appropriate authorities.

Sources:

• PEOPLE
• FOX 10 News
• True Crime News