20 YEAR SENTENCE IN CHILD ABUSE CASE

An Anderson County jury deliberated less than two hours before delivering a guilty verdict in the State vs. Lillian Sims case today in Anderson General Sessions Court. Sims was charged with Homicide by Child Abuse or Neglect in relation to the death of six-month old Shaquala Mance on March 27, 2005. 

Lillian Sims had been a foster parent to the child for approximately two months prior to the child’s death. On March 27, 2005, EMS responded to 123 Compton Drive in Anderson in reference to the infant who was found to be in cardiac arrest. Dr. Brett Woodard, who performed the autopsy, stated that the cause of death was malignant cerebral edema due to blunt force trauma. Sims, the primary caregiver was subsequently charged with Homicide by Child Abuse or Neglect. 

The Honorable Perry Buckner sentenced Sims to 20 years suspended to 15 years prison time with 3 years probation to follow. 

“The majority of children who suffer from abuse or neglect cannot speak for themselves. When this happens, it is up to the justice system to speak for them. The jury, by their verdict, did just that for Shaquala.” Solicitor Chrissy Adams.