Full Breakdown
Mother Charged After Two Ladson Children Found Dead During Welfare Check
By Drooid · · How we work
Tragic Deaths and Criminal Charges
Charleston County Coroner Bobbi Jo O’Neal identified the victims as Emory Deacon, a 2-year-old (33 months) girl, and Harlow Deacon, a 15-month-old girl. The coroner’s office ruled both deaths homicides caused by starvation and dehydration due to neglect. Justine Marie May, 31, the children’s primary caregiver, has been arrested and charged with two counts of homicide by child abuse.
Prior Welfare Interventions
Since August, deputies, the South Carolina Department of Social Services (DSS), and the South Carolina Department of Mental Health Mobile Crisis Unit responded to the Pinewood Drive residence 13 times. Visits included welfare checks and coordinated responses with DSS and the mental-health unit. Deputies reported no observable signs of concern during these contacts. The most recent visit before the children were discovered occurred in September, when only May was present.
Official Findings and Agency Responses
The sheriff’s office released a statement confirming that the children were found during a welfare check on a Tuesday afternoon. After May exited the home, deputies entered and discovered the bodies. The office also noted that a routine review by the Charleston County Sheriff’s Office of Professional Standards is underway. The coroner’s office publicly released the children’s names, ages, and cause of death after initially withholding that information.
Legal Proceedings and Next Steps
May was booked into the Al Cannon Detention Center without bond. Court records show an initial appearance scheduled for Nov. 20 of this year and a second appearance slated for Mar. 19 of next year (scheduled).
Key Data Summary
- Victims: Emory Deacon (33 months) and Harlow Deacon (15 months)
- Cause of death: Starvation and dehydration due to neglect (homicide)
- Charges: Two counts of homicide by child abuse against Justine Marie May
- Agency involvement: Charleston County Sheriff’s Office, DSS, Mental Health Mobile Crisis Unit, Coroner’s Office
- Welfare check frequency: 13 responses since August, including 5 in September
The investigation continues as authorities review the series of welfare checks and the circumstances leading to the children’s deaths.
