Man receives probation in charges related to child’s death

0
1462

A man charged in the death of his girlfriend’s 7-month-old baby received five years probation after family members pleaded that he was attempting to help the child.

Kevin Bryan Adams, of Piedmont, pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter in the death of Braydon Alexander Odell. Adams was arrested in May of 2010 and charged with homicide by child abuse. An arrest warrant said Adams “did grab, shake or violently move the child during which extensive and fatal injuries were caused to the child.”

Adams was released on bond in January 2012 and had been on house arrest since.

Adams’ lawyer said his client thought Braydon had something stuck in his throat and he was trying to assist the child’s breathing.

The prosecutor said had the case gone to trial they couldn’t prove beyond a shadow of a doubt that Adams had ill will toward the child.

Braydon’s mother, grandmother and father all gave tearful pleas on Adams’ behalf, saying he was attempting to save the child.

On Monday, the judge sentenced Adams to five years of probation.

Investigators said Adams has an extensive criminal history, including previous convictions for drugs, assault and fraudulent checks.