A couple from California has been sentenced to over ten years in prison for the brutal killing of a one-year-old child. Samantha Garver, 26, and her partner Sergio Mena, 34, admitted to second-degree murder and inflicting serious bodily harm on her son, Henry Wheatley-Brown.

The tragic incident took place at the couple’s residence in Sugarloaf, near Big Bear City, California, resulting in the death of little Henry on September 30, 2023. Mena caused severe burns to the toddler by placing him in scalding hot water and then leaving him unattended to reportedly procure methamphetamine.

Investigations revealed that Henry had endured sustained abuse, including second- and third-degree burns, bodily bruises, and multiple healing fractures in his arms. Child services confirmed that the cause of the toddler’s death was due to abuse or neglect.

Upon Mena’s return home, he found Henry in excruciating pain from severe burns but allegedly did not attempt to alleviate the child’s suffering. Medical care was not sought, and the burns were treated with over-the-counter ointment until the following day when authorities were finally notified.

Sergio Mena received a 21-year prison sentence, while Samantha Garver was sentenced to 14 years. Records spanning several years documented the alleged abuse suffered by Henry and his siblings, prompting intervention from the San Bernardino County Department of Children and Family Services.

Alarming statements made by the mother, including expressing thoughts of silencing a crying child with a pillow and questioning the abuse potential of duct-taping a child’s mouth, raised concerns among investigators. Family members, including the child’s grandmother, downplayed the severity of abuse, suggesting it was a norm and could be overcome.

The sentencing was seen as a step towards justice for Henry, with authorities vowing to continue protecting vulnerable children.