A Mississippi babysitter faces life behind bars after a heinous act that shook the Corinth community.
At a Glance
- Makallie Elizabeth Durham received life without parole for the murder of a two-year-old child.
- An additional 40-year sentence was given for child abuse against the child’s 11-month-old sister.
- The incident took place in September 2022, highlighting the brutal nature of the crimes.
- Durham pled guilty to all charges including capital murder and four counts of felonious child abuse.
Tragic Incident in Corinth
In September 2022, tragedy struck Corinth, Mississippi, when authorities discovered a two-year-old boy unresponsive, with severe bruising and injuries, under the care of babysitter Makallie Elizabeth Durham. Alongside him, his 11-month-old sister showed signs of physical abuse. Both children were initially rushed to Magnolia Regional Hospital before being transferred to Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee. Sadly, the young boy succumbed to his wounds two days later.
The community was shocked as details emerged about the abuse that occurred over a span of four days. Law enforcement revealed Durham had repeatedly assaulted the children, leading to their grievous injuries. The severity and brutality of the acts were underscored by Judge Michael P. Mills Jr. during sentencing.
Corinth, Mississippi: Former Babysitter Sentenced To Life + 40 Years For Child's Murder & Child Abuse
Makallie E. Durham 25, Received Life + 40 Years For Capital Murder, Child Abuse Of 2 Year Old, 11 Month Old Sibling She Babysat Who Sustained Non-Life Threatening Injuries!
— Johnsonvenida3 (@johnsonvenida3) December 14, 2024
Sentencing and Legal Proceedings
The legal proceedings culminated in a conviction for Durham, who plead guilty to capital murder and multiple counts of child abuse. Circuit Judge Michael P. Mills Jr. handed down the maximum sentence available under Mississippi law—life in prison without the possibility of parole for the murder, plus an additional 40 years for the child abuse charges. The harsh sentencing aimed to reflect the severity of Durham’s actions and offer a semblance of justice to the victims’ families.
A grand jury highlighted the assault’s brutality, referencing injuries inflicted “in the face or head”. The indictment and subsequent conviction demonstrate the legal system’s commitment to protecting the most vulnerable and holding perpetrators of such offenses accountable.
Over two years after the death of a toddler, a former Mississippi babysitter has been sentenced to life in prison plus 40 years for the capital murder of a two-year-old.https://t.co/ag1ON5Xumi
— WREG News Channel 3 (@3onyourside) December 14, 2024
Justice Served in Mississippi
Durham, who will remain in Alcorn County Jail until her transfer to the Mississippi Department of Corrections, faced the full weight of the law. Her actions and subsequent legal repercussions have been a harrowing reminder of the profound responsibility caregivers hold over the lives of children. The tragic loss and subsequent sentencing serve as a stark example of justice executed under the principles of Mississippi law.
While no verdict can replace the loss felt by the children’s families, the judicial system’s stern response provides a degree of closure. It underscores that such acts of violence, particularly against defenseless young lives, will meet with unequivocal justice.
