Honk News (Chapmansboro, TN) – A man from Tennessee faces charges of child abuse related to the tragic death of his 6-year-old son, following the conviction of his girlfriend for the child’s murder just months earlier.
In July 2023, the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation reported the tragic discovery of a 6-year-old boy named Turner Simpkins, who was found deceased in a residence in Chapmansboro, Tennessee. The investigation revealed that the cause of death was attributed to chronic blunt force injuries and malnourishment.
Shannon Leigh Elliott, 27, the girlfriend of Turner’s father, faced indictment related to the murder that occurred in March of the previous year. Elliott received a life sentence after being found guilty of murder and two charges of aggravated child abuse, as per state prison records.
The autopsy of Turner uncovered significant bruising, bite marks, and cuts across his body, according to reports from the Tennesseean. During the court proceedings, investigators presented testimony indicating that surveillance footage captured Elliott engaging in acts of violence against the child, including smacking, kicking, biting, and strangling. They suggested that this pattern of abuse may have persisted for several months, according to the report.
Several months later, authorities have announced that the child’s father, Austin Simpkins, 29, faces indictment on charges related to neglect, abuse, and endangerment of a child.
The TBI claims that Austin knew about the abuse his girlfriend was inflicting, failed to intervene, and did not inform the authorities.
The current status regarding whether Austin has submitted a plea or secured legal representation remains uncertain. He remains in custody in Cheatham County with a bond set at $500,000.