Makallie Elizabeth Durham was sentenced to life in prison for the capital murder of a toddler from Mississippi, with additional years for child abuse.
At a Glance
- Durham was sentenced to life without parole for murdering a toddler.
- She received an additional 40-year sentence for abuse of the toddler’s sister.
- The events occurred in Corinth, Mississippi in September 2022.
- Judge Mills Jr. emphasized the gravity of her crimes.
Conviction and Sentencing
Makallie Elizabeth Durham from Corinth, Mississippi, received a life sentence without parole for murdering a 2-year-old boy. The Circuit Judge, Michael P. Mills Jr., handed down the maximum penalty for this tragic incident. The two children, initially taken to Magnolia Regional Hospital and later transferred to a specialized children’s facility, suffered non-accidental injuries. The young girl, aged 11 months, received severe injuries from repeated abuse over four days.
Durham pleaded guilty to capital murder and child abuse charges. Her sentence includes an additional 40 years for the abuse committed against the boy’s sister. The District Attorney Jason Herring made a formal announcement regarding her guilty plea. Durham will remain in Alcorn County Jail before her transfer to the Mississippi Department of Corrections.
Over two years after the death of a toddler, a former Mississippi babysitter has been sentenced to life in prison plus 40 years for the capital murder of a two-year-old.https://t.co/ag1ON5Xumi
— WREG News Channel 3 (@3onyourside) December 14, 2024
Incident Details
The events unfolded in September 2022 when authorities responded to a distress call at Durham’s residence. The 2-year-old was found unresponsive with extensive bruising. His younger sister also showed signs of physical abuse but survived. After receiving care at Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital, she was stabilized. The tragic death of the young boy, who succumbed two days later, prompted a full investigation.
Durham’s indictment on capital murder and child abuse charges came in November 2022. Investigations showed that Durham had repeatedly struck both children during their four-day stay with her.
Corinth, Mississippi: Former Babysitter Sentenced To Life + 40 Years For Child's Murder & Child Abuse
Makallie E. Durham 25, Received Life + 40 Years For Capital Murder, Child Abuse Of 2 Year Old, 11 Month Old Sibling She Babysat Who Sustained Non-Life Threatening Injuries!
— Johnsonvenida3 (@johnsonvenida3) December 14, 2024
Legal Implications
Circuit Judge Mills Jr. deliberated extensively on the case, issuing a decisive verdict. Durham will not be eligible for parole nor any form of conditional release, marking the severity with which her actions were viewed. This case has drawn significant attention to the importance of child welfare and legal measures to protect the most vulnerable in society.
Durham’s conviction underscores the need for vigilance and protective policies surrounding child care. The sad outcome of this case will resonate in Mississippi’s legal and social framework for years to come.
