Full Breakdown
Two Young Children Found Dead in Ladson Home After Multiple Welfare Checks
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event: Children Discovered Deceased During Late-September Welfare Check
Charleston County coroner Bobbi Jo O’Neal identified the victims as Emory Deacon, 33 months old, and Harlow Deacon, 15 months old. Both children died from starvation and dehydration, which the coroner’s office attributed to neglect. Their mother, Justine May, the sole caregiver, was taken into custody and charged with two counts of homicide by child abuse. Deputies arrived after a 911 call reported that May was walking in the neighborhood without the children; upon entry, officers found the infants “obviously deceased.”
Background & Context: Repeated Agency Visits Prior to Discovery
The Charleston County Sheriff’s Office documented numerous prior contacts with the Pinewood Drive residence. Deputies, the South Carolina Department of Social Services, and the state Department of Mental Health’s Mobile Crisis Unit conducted welfare checks and coordinated visits in mid-August and throughout September. Officials reported no visible signs of concern during those encounters. The sheriff’s office noted that the most recent contact before the fatal discovery involved May alone in mid-September.
Official Statements & Responses
Coroner O’Neal confirmed the cause of death as starvation and dehydration due to neglect. The sheriff’s office stated that May, after being read her Miranda rights, told detectives she had been in a “blur” for the previous two weeks and could not recall the last time she fed or gave the children anything to drink. The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division’s Special Victims Unit has been assigned to assist the investigation.
Criticism & Opposition
Gedney M. Howe IV, attorney for the children’s father Zack Deacon, argued that the deaths could and should have been prevented, citing repeated calls from neighbors, friends, and family seeking help. Howe emphasized the family’s demand for justice and highlighted perceived failures in the response to earlier warnings.
What’s Next
May’s first court appearance is scheduled for late November. She has waived a bond hearing and remains in custody while the investigation continues.