CINCINNATI, OH – A man charged in the death of a 16-year-old boy from western Ohio pleaded guilty this week to involuntary manslaughter and child endangerment, according to officials. The development comes months after authorities discovered the boy’s body in what they described as “appalling” conditions.
William Turnage, 59, entered his plea Thursday as part of an agreement that saw more severe charges, including murder and failure to report a crime, dismissed. Prosecutors said the plea deal will allow them to proceed more swiftly in securing a conviction and begin the sentencing process for Turnage.
The investigation began on February 6, when law enforcement officers found the teenage boy’s body inside a residence. Authorities described disturbing circumstances: the teen, whose name has not been released, was found chained to a cot inside a basement closet with no food in his digestive tract, indicating prolonged neglect and deprivation.
Turnage was arrested alongside Tamara Moore, 53, the victim’s mother by adoption and Turnage’s then-girlfriend. Moore was taken into custody at her Cincinnati home two months later and faces charges of murder and child endangerment. She remains held on a $1 million bond while awaiting her next court appearance.
Turnage evaded police for several days after Moore’s arrest before being apprehended on April 16. He is currently being held on a $500,000 bond. His sentencing is set for August 25, and he faces up to 11 years in prison if convicted on the charges to which he pleaded guilty.
Authorities allege the boy endured prolonged abuse inside the residence. According to investigative findings, the conditions included being confined and deprived of basic necessities, leading to his untimely death. Officials said their investigation painted a picture of severe maltreatment.
The case sparked widespread outrage in the community and drew strong condemnation from county officials. Prosecutors described the case as one of the most egregious examples of child abuse they have encountered, highlighting that the boy was denied fundamental care and compassion.
The Hamilton County Prosecutor’s Office has pledged to hold both Turnage and Moore accountable for their actions. Prosecutors indicated that the plea agreement with Turnage was reached in the interest of justice and to avoid putting the family and community through a potentially lengthy trial.
Moore is scheduled to appear before a judge on September 29. It remains unclear whether a similar plea offer will be extended to her. She continues to face the possibility of a life sentence if convicted on the murder charge.
The case remains under review as officials prepare for upcoming court proceedings for both defendants. Meanwhile, the focus remains on bringing justice for the victim and ensuring those responsible are held liable for his death.