An Arkansas couple will now spend the next 70 years in prison after pleading guilty to the death of their 2-year-old son, who died after being left in a hot car along with three other siblings. The tragic case has shocked the community and raised serious concerns about child safety and neglect.
The sentencing came on Friday, April 18, after both parents — Deja Rollins (28) and Justin Rollins (30) — pleaded guilty to two counts of second-degree murder and one count of first-degree domestic battery, according to Pulaski County Prosecuting Attorney Will Jones.
What Happened on July 7, 2024?
The couple was arrested in July 2024, after their 3-year-old child was taken to Arkansas Children’s Hospital in Little Rock for urgent medical care due to suspected abuse and neglect.
While doctors treated the child, hospital staff discovered that four more children—ages 2, 4, 7, and 10—were left locked inside a hot car in the parking lot. The temperature outside was high, and the children were suffering from heat exhaustion.
Emergency responders rescued the children and rushed them to the hospital. Sadly, 2-year-old Jay’Dien Rollins died the next day from the effects of the heat.
Parents Refused to Cooperate
According to Jacksonville Police, the parents were not helpful when asked about the children’s whereabouts during the emergency. Police were first alerted to possible child abuse when the couple’s 3-year-old was brought in for serious treatment.
After discovering the other children in the car, authorities confirmed that all four had signs of heat exhaustion, and their conditions were critical. Jay’Dien’s death was later ruled as heat-related.
Additional Charges and Home Investigation
While searching the couple’s home, investigators also found a malnourished dog. The animal was taken into care by Jacksonville Animal Services. The couple was initially charged with animal cruelty, but that charge was dropped under the plea agreement that secured their long prison sentence.
The domestic battery charge stemmed from the earlier abuse investigation involving the 3-year-old, whose condition first brought attention to the family’s situation.
A Shocking and Heartbreaking Case
Pulaski County Prosecutor Will Jones called the case:
“One of the most disturbing and heartbreaking our office has ever encountered. Protecting children is the top priority of this office.”
He added that the long sentence ensures the children involved will not be forgotten, and that such crimes will be met with firm justice.