Story perspectives

Mother Sentenced to 32 Years for Daughter's Abuse Murder

2/9/2026

Summary

Story summary

Mandie Miller, 36, was sentenced to 32 years for murdering her 8-year-old adopted daughter Meela Miller after pleading guilty to homicide by abuse, child assault, and unlawful imprisonment.
Authorities found Meela Miller's body in a U-Haul trailer as Miller and her boyfriend Aleksander Kurmoyarov traveled from Washington to South Dakota.
Evidence showed months of abuse, including restraint and starvation.
During sentencing, Meela's biological mother condemned Mandie Miller and expressed forgiveness.

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Story summary

Mandie Miller, 36, was sentenced to 32 years for murdering her 8-year-old adopted daughter Meela Miller after pleading guilty to homicide by abuse, child assault, and unlawful imprisonment.
Authorities found Meela Miller's body in a U-Haul trailer as Miller and her boyfriend Aleksander Kurmoyarov traveled from Washington to South Dakota.
Evidence showed months of abuse, including restraint and starvation.
During sentencing, Meela's biological mother condemned Mandie Miller and expressed forgiveness.