In a heartbreaking case that has deeply affected the community, a 24-year-old mother from Iowa, identified as Billie, has been sentenced to 50 years in prison for the tragic death of her 3-year-old son, Jorrdan. The sentencing took place on May 16, 2025, with District Judge Nearry delivering the maximum penalty for child endangerment resulting in death.
Incident Dates Back to May 2023
The case began in May 2023, when emergency responders were called to Billie’s home after she reported her young son was unresponsive. The child was first taken to a local hospital and then transferred to Children’s Hospital and Medical Center in Nebraska, where he sadly died the next day.
Mother Claimed It Was an Accident
At first, Billie told authorities that her son had accidentally strangled himself on the chest strap of his car seat after falling asleep during a car ride. However, an autopsy report from the Iowa Office of the State Medical Examiner found that although the cause of death was strangulation, the injuries did not match the mother’s explanation.
Investigators Found a Different Story
Further investigation revealed a disturbing truth. Witnesses told police that the child had not been properly secured in a car seat and was actually seen hanging out of a rear car window during the drive. Authorities believe the mother was distracted by her mobile phone and did not notice her son was in danger as the car window closed on him, leading to his death.
In November 2023, the mother turned herself in to the Sheriff’s Office and was formally charged with child endangerment resulting in death.
Found Guilty, Sentenced to Maximum Term
Billie waived her right to a jury trial, and in April 2025, Judge Nearry found her guilty based on the evidence.
On May 16, 2025, she was sentenced to 50 years in prison, the maximum punishment under the law. She was also ordered to pay $150,000 in restitution to the victim’s estate. Her legal team requested a new trial, but the court denied the request, and the sentence was upheld.
A Reminder of the Importance of Child Safety
This tragic case is a painful reminder of the importance of child safety, especially when it comes to proper use of car seats and avoiding distractions while driving.
Authorities emphasized that a few seconds of negligence can lead to devastating outcomes. In this case, a young child lost his life, and a young mother will now spend decades behind bars.
As legal proceedings come to an end, child welfare agencies and community advocates continue to urge parents and caregivers to remain vigilant and responsible at all times, especially when it involves young children.