Tenn. Man Indicted on Abuse Charges Following Girlfriend's Conviction in Death of His 6-Year-Old Son

A Tennessee man was charged with child abuse in connection with the death of his 6-year-old son — months after his girlfriend was convicted of the child’s murder.

Turner Simpkins, 6, was found dead in a home in Chapmansboro, Tenn., in July 2023, according to the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, which said the boy died from chronic blunt force injuries and malnourishment.

The girlfriend of Turner’s father, Shannon Leigh Elliott, 27, was indicted in connection with the killing in March of last year. Elliott was convicted of murder and two counts of aggravated child abuse and sentenced to life in prison, according to state prison records.

Turner’s autopsy revealed extensive bruising, bite marks, and cuts about his body, the Tennesseean reported. In court, investigators testified that surveillance footage showed Elliott repeatedly smacking, kicking, biting and strangling the child, and believed the abuse lasted for months, per the outlet.

Now, the child’s father, Austin Simpkins, 29, has been indicted on Tuesday, Jan. 7 on charges of child neglect, abuse and endangerment, according to authorities.

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The TBI alleges that Austin was aware of the abuse being committed by his girlfriend, did not attempt to stop it, and neglected to report it to authorities.

It is not immediately clear if Austin has entered a plea or retained an attorney. He is being held in Cheatham County on $500,000 bond.

If you or someone you know has been a victim of sexual abuse, text “STRENGTH” to the Crisis Text Line at 741-741 to be connected to a certified crisis counselor.