Tragic Case in Fountain Inn: Parents Plead Guilty in Daughter’s Death

Tragic Case in Fountain Inn: Parents Plead Guilty in Daughter’s Death

This week, a somber plea was made in the small city of Fountain Inn, where a mother and her husband accepted responsibility for the heartbreaking death of 12-year-old Ashantae Unique Glenn. In court, Shawnetta and Barkee Faust pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter and unlawful abuse/neglect of a child. It’s a case that has deeply affected the community and raised many eyebrows regarding the laws that protect our youth.

A Heartbreaking Turn of Events

The tragedy unfolded in 2022 when the Fountain Inn Police Department launched an investigation into Ashantae’s untimely death. Initially charged with murder, the couple was held at the Laurens County Detention Center without bond. However, this week, they chose to accept a plea deal that significantly lessened the charges against them. The plea agreement allows for a maximum sentence of 10 years for the unlawful abuse and neglect charge and a maximum of 5 years for involuntary manslaughter.

Eighth Circuit Solicitor David M. Stumbo shared insights into the difficult decision-making process regarding the case. He explained that once Ashantae turned 12, South Carolina law left a gap that made it tough to charge the couple with murder under the existing Homicide by Child Abuse statute. As he pointed out, due to the nature of the charges, proving “malice aforethought” would have been an uphill battle.

Call for Legislative Change

After thorough discussions and considering the current legal framework, it was determined that accepting the plea was a more pragmatic approach for justice. Stumbo noted that while the guilty pleas do provide some accountability, he feels the maximum sentences available are “wholly inadequate” for the severity of the case.

He emphasized the need for the South Carolina legislature to reconsider and amend the law. Stumbo stated, “The Homicide by Child Abuse statute must be updated to include vulnerable young people between the ages of 12 and 18, like Ashantae.” This is an essential step toward better protecting children from harm at the hands of their caretakers, an issue that resonates with families and advocates across the state.

A Community in Mourning

The news of the Faust couple pleading guilty has left many residents of Fountain Inn feeling a mix of sadness and frustration. Community members are grappling with the impact of Ashantae’s loss and the implications of the legal outcomes. There is a sense that while justice has been served in part, the full accountability that would have come from a murder conviction is missing.

As the legal proceedings conclude, the community is shifting focus. Many local parents and advocates are joining forces to urge lawmakers to revise existing child protection laws. They believe that every child should be safeguarded from abuse and that transformative action is necessary for real change.

Looking Ahead

As Fountain Inn reflects on this tragic case, a sense of solidarity is growing. Residents are coming together, determined to ensure that no child in their community suffers the fate that Ashantae did. They hope that by raising awareness and pushing for legislative reform, they can foster a safer environment for all children moving forward.

In a city who’s now become all too familiar with the impact of such a tragedy, the sentiment remains strong: every child deserves to feel safe and loved. As Fountain Inn adapts to this new reality, it not only honors Ashantae’s memory but also stands united against any future injustices.