An Arizona couple has received sentences related to the tragic death of a special needs child. Ariel Lea Horn, 34, and her boyfriend, Charles Jackson McClellan Jr., 30, were arrested after Horn’s 11-year-old son passed away in their Tucson home in November 2023.
Emergency services were called to the home due to an unresponsive child, but when they arrived, the boy was already dead. An investigation revealed that he had suffered renal failure linked to sepsis, along with multiple lesions on his body.
Authorities reported that the child’s sores were due to a lack of proper medical care, pointing to neglect by both Horn and McClellan. The boy was entirely dependent on his caregivers for his health needs.
A school nurse had noticed the child’s sores and advised the family to seek medical attention. However, the couple did not take him to the doctor and he missed numerous appointments. Additionally, he was not moved frequently, which led to an environment that allowed bacteria to thrive, worsening his condition.
During the investigation, police also discovered evidence of substantial fentanyl use within the home.
In 2024, Horn and McClellan were arrested and in January 2025, they pleaded guilty to two counts of child abuse, having initially faced a charge of first-degree murder.
On March 10, 2025, Horn was sentenced to seven years in prison, while McClellan received a sentence of 3.5 years. Both were credited for nearly a year of time already served.
