Story perspectives

Mother Sentenced for Neglect in Daughter's Malnutrition Death

2/26/2026

Summary

Story summary

Julie Miller was sentenced to up to life in prison for the malnutrition death of her 14-year-old daughter, Kyneddi Miller, in West Virginia.
Kyneddi's body was found emaciated at 58 pounds, and she spent her final days alone on a bathroom floor, according to Prosecutor Dan Holstein.
Julie Miller pleaded guilty to child death by neglect and will be eligible for parole after 15 years.
The case has prompted a federal audit and legislative efforts to improve West Virginia's child welfare system.
Kyneddi was being homeschooled, but her mother did not submit required academic assessments.

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Story summary

Julie Miller was sentenced to up to life in prison for the malnutrition death of her 14-year-old daughter, Kyneddi Miller, in West Virginia.
Kyneddi's body was found emaciated at 58 pounds, and she spent her final days alone on a bathroom floor, according to Prosecutor Dan Holstein.
Julie Miller pleaded guilty to child death by neglect and will be eligible for parole after 15 years.
The case has prompted a federal audit and legislative efforts to improve West Virginia's child welfare system.
Kyneddi was being homeschooled, but her mother did not submit required academic assessments.