A mother has pleaded guilty to manslaughter after the death of her 10-year-old son, following months of severe abuse.
Jem Beam admitted in court that she was responsible for the death of Braxtyn Smith. As part of a plea deal, a more serious murder charge was reduced. Prosecutors are expected to recommend a 25-year prison sentence.
Braxtyn died in February 2024 after being taken to hospital. Medical reports showed he died from blunt force injuries linked to long-term abuse. He weighed just 48 pounds at the time of his death and had suffered repeated harm and neglect.
Investigators said the abuse went largely unnoticed because the child was homeschooled. This limited his contact with teachers and other adults who might have identified warning signs earlier.
Braxtyn’s father and grandmother have also been charged in connection with his death. Their cases are scheduled to go to trial.
The case has deeply shocked the local community. It has also raised serious concerns about child protection, especially in homes where children have little contact with the outside world.
The court will formally sentence the mother after the other trials are completed.