A woman from New York City has received a 20-year prison sentence for the heartbreaking death of her teenage cousin, Jallen McConnie. The tragic incident, which occurred in 2021, involved long-term abuse against Jallen, who was just 15 years old and had intellectual disabilities.
According to the Manhattan District Attorney’s office, Jallen suffered severe injuries from physical abuse, described as “homicidal asphyxia.” He passed away in June 2021 while staying with his cousin, Johnette Booker, in her home.
Booker, who is 43 years old, faced multiple charges including manslaughter and was found guilty in February. Following her sentencing, District Attorney Alvin Bragg spoke about the case, emphasizing the cruelty that Jallen endured.
Prosecutors revealed that Jallen was sent to Booker for “disciplinary reasons,” but instead of proper care, he was subjected to brutal treatment. Jallen, who had autism, was reportedly tortured in various ways, including being hit with belts, made to sleep on the floor, and denied access to his medications.
On the day of his death, Booker allegedly beat Jallen for over an hour, leaving him with severe bruises and injuries. Two other individuals were reportedly involved in the assault, and they also contributed to the attack by forcing water down Jallen’s throat. He ultimately collapsed in the bathtub.
After the incident, Booker failed to contact authorities or anyone in the family for help. She gave conflicting accounts to police, first claiming that Jallen had been attacked by others in a park, then stating that he had taken his own life.
Bragg condemned Booker’s actions, highlighting the “vicious and cruel behavior” that led to a young life being lost to such extreme abuse. In total, she was convicted of charges including first-degree manslaughter, assault, gang assault, and child endangerment.
Booker will now serve her sentence in state prison, facing the consequences of her actions while Jallen’s family is left to mourn their loss.
