A former U.S. soldier and his wife may spend the rest of their lives in prison after authorities say they starved their young daughter to death.
The Justice Department announced last week that Brandon Kelley and Stacey Kelley have been charged with felony murder and two counts of second-degree murder. Prosecutors claim their daughter, Vyolet Kelley, “died because she was denied proper food and medical care while living at Fort Stewart Military Reservation.”
News4Jax reported that the alleged abuse happened between October and November 2024, but it’s unclear exactly when their daughter died or how old she was.
PEOPLE has contacted the Justice Department for more details. Jail records show the Kelleys have been held without bond since August 8.
Brandon Kelley, 29, was an enlisted soldier living on the Georgia military base with his wife, 26, and their daughter.
Acting U.S. Attorney Tara M. Lyons said in a statement, “The allegations in this case are heartbreaking on many levels. Our office will continue working with law enforcement partners to pursue justice.”
If convicted, the Kelleys could face life in prison without parole.
Fort Stewart was also in the news last week after a service member allegedly opened fire on fellow soldiers, injuring five. Sergeant Quornelius Radford faces charges including attempted premeditated murder.
