Hamilton County, Ohio – A disturbing case of child abuse and neglect has taken a new turn as a 59-year-old man admitted his role in the death of an adopted teenager with autism.
William Turnage pleaded guilty on Thursday to involuntary manslaughter and endangering children, according to the Hamilton County Prosecutor’s Office. Under the plea agreement, charges of murder and failure to report a crime were dismissed.
Turnage now faces a potential prison sentence of up to 11 years. His sentencing is scheduled for August 25, and he remains in custody on a $500,000 bond.
The victim, an unidentified 16-year-old boy, was found dead on February 6, 2024, in deplorable conditions. Investigators revealed the teen had no food in his digestive system and was discovered chained to a cot in a basement closet.
Authorities say the boy’s adoptive mother, Tamara Moore, 53, and Turnage subjected him to prolonged abuse. Moore, who was Turnage’s girlfriend at the time, is still facing charges of murder and child endangerment. She remains in jail on a $1 million bond and is scheduled to appear in court on September 29.
Then-Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers expressed outrage over the case, calling it one of the most shocking acts of abuse her office has encountered.
“Words alone cannot describe the level of depravity displayed by these two defendants,” she stated. “My heart breaks for this little boy. He was treated worse than an animal, forced to live in a basement closet unwanted, unloved, and denied the most basic of necessities.”
Powers added, “I promise that we will do whatever is necessary to ensure there is justice for J.J. and that both of these individuals are held accountable for what they have done.”
Timeline of Events
February 6, 2024 – Victim found deceased in Hamilton County home.
April 12, 2024 – Tamara Moore arrested at her residence on Belgreen Lane.
April 16, 2024 – William Turnage apprehended after days on the run.
August 25, 2025 – Scheduled sentencing for Turnage.
September 29, 2025 – Scheduled court appearance for Moore.
While Turnage’s plea deal moves the case forward, prosecutors have not confirmed whether Moore will be offered a similar agreement. The Hamilton County Prosecutor’s Office has yet to release further details.
This heartbreaking case continues to raise awareness about child abuse, neglect, and the urgent need for intervention in vulnerable households.
