A 5-year-old boy who authorities say lived in “barely livable” conditions at home died weighing about 19 pounds, prompting criminal charges against his parents in Louisiana.
Marlon Perilloux, 33, and Raynisa Young, 27, were arrested after the death of their son, Marley Perilloux, according to a press release from the Ascension Parish Sheriff’s Office. Both face charges of negligent homicide and second-degree cruelty to juveniles, along with additional drug- and weapons-related offenses.
Deputies were called to a gas station in Geismar around 9 p.m. on Jan. 1 for a reported medical emergency involving a child, the sheriff’s office said. When they arrived, Marley was unresponsive and was with his father, Marlon, at the scene.
Deputies began CPR while waiting for emergency medical services, according to the press release. Marley was taken to a nearby hospital as first responders continued life-saving efforts, but he was later pronounced dead.
Detectives with the sheriff’s office Juvenile Unit launched an investigation after noticing apparent injuries on the child and identifying signs of neglect, including severe malnourishment, authorities said.
As part of the investigation, detectives executed a search warrant at the home where Marley lived with his parents. Investigators described the conditions inside as “barely livable,” according to the sheriff’s office.
During interviews, detectives concluded that both parents failed to provide basic care, including proper hygiene, regular feeding, and necessary medical attention, the press release said. Marley weighed approximately 19 pounds at the time of his death.
In addition to the neglect-related charges, Perilloux and Young were also charged with possession with intent to distribute marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, and illegal carrying of weapons, the sheriff’s office said.
Both were booked into the Ascension Parish Jail without bond. It was not immediately clear whether either had entered a plea or retained an attorney.
