Authorities in Washington state have apprehended two caregivers accused of the murder of a 14-year-old special-needs girl from Northern California, who tragically died from starvation.
Megan Fredrick, 33, and Sherwood Johnson II, 37, are facing serious charges, including murder and child abuse resulting in death, after the young girl, who had developmental disabilities, was discovered unresponsive in her home in Live Oak, near Yuba City, this past January.
Investigators, noting the suspicious nature of the situation, classified her death as a homicide, citing starvation and neglect as the causes. It was revealed that the girl required constant care and depended on a feeding tube for nutrition.
The Sutter County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed to The Post that Fredrick is the victim’s sister, although they have not disclosed further details.
“The loss of a young life is always heart-wrenching, and our sympathies are with the victim,” stated Sutter County Sheriff Brandon Barnes.
Following the issuance of arrest warrants, it was discovered that Fredrick and Johnson II had relocated out of California.
On Tuesday, the two arrived back in Sutter County, where they were being held on $750,000 bail, the sheriff’s office told The Post.
The Spokane County Regional Anti-Violence Enforcement & Narcotics (RAVEN) Task Force helped in the investigation.
“Our staff assigned to Live Oak handled this case with professionalism and compassion,” Sutter County Sheriff Sheriff Brandon Barnes said. “I am glad to see those responsible are in custody and will be held to answer on these charges.”
