Florida woman ‘punish’ toddler to point of death: ‘Truly heart-wrenching’

Authorities in Hillsborough County have charged a woman from Florida, Rebecca Louise Gussage-Johnston, with murder in relation to the tragic death of a toddler last month. Initially, she had been charged with aggravated child abuse resulting in great bodily harm and child neglect, following the events that led to the child’s passing on May 19.

According to reports, Gussage-Johnston confessed to “punishing” the toddler a few hours before their death, citing the child’s misbehavior as the reason. The punishment included confining the toddler to a chair for an extended period without providing any care or attention.

Disturbingly, even after realizing that the child was in distress, Gussage-Johnston allegedly waited nearly a full day before a relative finally contacted emergency services through a call to 911.

The coroner’s office determined that the toddler’s death was a result of severe neglect, leading the authorities to upgrade the charges against Gussage-Johnston to first-degree murder in connection with aggravated child abuse.

Sheriff Chad Chronister expressed the determination of the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) in seeking justice for innocent children who suffer at the hands of criminals. He described the acts of violence targeting children as senseless and preventable, conveying his deep sorrow over such incidents.

Thanks to the unwavering dedication of the detectives involved, the HCSO has been able to ensure that Gussage-Johnston will face the consequences for her abhorrent actions.