A Montana man has been sentenced to 80 years in prison for the deliberate homicide of his 4-year-old stepson, Jaxsynn Gatlin. Kristopher Michael Harasymczuk, 40, received his sentence after a jury found him guilty of the crime in March.
Jaxsynn, who had autism, tragically drowned in a bathtub filled with scalding hot water in October 2021. Initially, his mother, Lana Harasymczuk, claimed it was an accident, stating that her son was alone in the bathroom when it happened. However, following the autopsy, which revealed the cause of death as hyperthermia and classified it as homicide, she changed her story.
Investigators noted that when they arrived at the scene, Jaxsynn was found lying on the bathroom floor, dry and feeling warm to the touch. The medical examiner’s report indicated that the boy had a temperature of 102 degrees and showed signs of potential abuse, with bruising on his body.
After the autopsy findings were released, Lana reportedly told police that her husband had been present with Jaxsynn just before she discovered him unresponsive. She later disclosed that Harasymczuk often used a metal spatula to hit both Jaxsynn and her other son.
During the investigation, Jaxsynn’s biological father provided evidence of severe bruising he observed on the boy’s body shortly after his death. He claimed these injuries resulted from Harasymczuk’s physical discipline methods, which included spanking and pushing.
As the case unfolded, prosecutors added charges of assault on a minor and tampering with physical evidence against Harasymczuk. He was convicted on these counts as well, leading to additional concurrent sentences.
Alongside Harasymczuk’s sentencing, Lana was charged with three counts of criminal child endangerment and tampering with evidence. She has not yet entered a plea for these charges.
The story has raised concerns about child welfare and the importance of recognizing signs of abuse. If anyone suspects child abuse, they are urged to contact the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline for support.
