Parents Who Left 2-Year-Old in Hot Car While Sibling Was Hospitalized for Neglect Sentenced to 70 Years in Prison

Arkansas Couple Sentenced to 70 Years for Leaving 2-Year-Old in Hot Car with Siblings By Charlotte Phillipp

An Arkansas couple has been sentenced to 70 years in prison after their 2-year-old son tragically died when he was left in a hot car with three of his siblings. Deja Rollins, 28, and Justin Rollins, 30, pleaded guilty to two counts of second-degree murder and one count of first-degree domestic battery. The sentencing was delivered by a judge in Little Rock, marking the conclusion of a heartbreaking case that shocked the community.

The devastating incident unfolded in July 2024 when the couple’s 3-year-old child required urgent medical treatment at Arkansas Children’s Hospital. During this time, their other children, aged 2, 4, 7, and 10, were left unattended in a locked car in the hospital parking lot. Tragically, the youngest child, Jay’Dien Rollins, lost his life the following day. The Rollins’ domestic battery charge was linked to the child abuse and neglect case that initially brought their 3-year-old to the hospital.

Pulaski County Prosecuting Attorney, Will Jones, expressed the gravity of the situation by stating, “This case is one of the most disturbing and heartbreaking our office has ever encountered. Protecting children is the top priority of this office. There is no greater responsibility, and we will continue to do everything in our power to ensure that those who harm a child are held fully accountable.”

Authorities were alerted to the situation when hospital security discovered the children in the car and promptly contacted emergency services. Upon arrival, all four children were found to be suffering from heat exhaustion and were taken to the hospital for urgent care. Despite the best efforts of medical professionals, Jay’Dien tragically did not survive.

Following the incident, investigators searched the Rollins’ residence and discovered a malnourished dog. Animal services intervened, and the couple faced a charge of animal cruelty, which was later dropped as part of a plea agreement. The prosecution extended gratitude to the various law enforcement agencies, medical staff, and officials involved in the case, emphasising the collaborative effort that led to justice being served.

In light of this tragic event, Jones reminded the public to remain vigilant and report suspected cases of child abuse or neglect. He reiterated the paramount importance of safeguarding children from harm and ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable for their actions. The community continues to mourn the loss of young Jay’Dien Rollins, a poignant reminder of the devastating consequences of neglect and apathy towards the welfare of children.

To support efforts in preventing child abuse, individuals are encouraged to contact the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline for immediate assistance and guidance. The hotline operates 24/7, offering multilingual support to those in need. As the Rollins case reaches its conclusion, communities reflect on the importance of vigilance and swift intervention in protecting vulnerable children from harm.