Stepmother Who Kept Child Locked and Chained Sentenced to 70 Years

Stepmother Who Kept Child Locked and Chained Sentenced to 70 Years
On February 27, 2026, Marianna Miles was sentenced to 70 years in prison in McLennan County, Texas, after being convicted of Injury to a Child – Causing Serious Mental Injury.
The case began in 2022 after the child was enrolled at Connally Junior High School in Elm Mott, Texas. According to the McLennan County District Attorney’s Office, school officials became concerned after Miles requested a meeting and described the child as having severe behavioral problems and needing constant supervision, including restrictions on eating without her approval.
Educators observed the child to be polite but thin, hungry, and inadequately clothed. Staff reported that the child rummaged through trash cans for food.
In October 2022, a teacher noticed an injury to the child’s face. The child later reported that Miles struck her with a belt buckle. The school reported the matter to Child Protective Services, prompting an investigation alongside the Lacy Lakeview Police Department.
Investigators determined that Miles kept the child locked in a sparse bedroom, often without a bed or mattress, and installed an alarm that would sound if the child attempted to leave. Authorities said Miles physically abused the child, forced her brothers to beat her, and restrained her with duct tape and heavy chains.
Miles was convicted by a jury on February 26, 2026, and sentenced the following day.

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