Georgia – In a harrowing case in Georgia that underscores the darkest aspects of domestic violence, a 29-year-old man, identified as K. Woods, has been sentenced to life in prison following the tragic death of his 2-month-old daughter, identified as Kamila. The District Attorney’s Office confirmed that Woods was convicted of felony murder, aggravated battery, and first-degree child cruelty in connection with the infant’s 2019 death.
On the morning of November 30, 2019, Woods brought his critically injured daughter to the hospital, where she was pronounced dead upon arrival. The events leading to her death began the previous day when Kamila’s mother left her in Woods’ care at his apartment. The situation took a fatal turn that evening under the guise of play. Woods reported to the police that he was “just playing” with Kamila, tossing her into the air and catching her. During one of these catches, he claimed to have accidentally squeezed her too hard, causing her severe internal injuries. He told authorities that after the incident, he put Kamila to bed around 10 p.m. and did not check on her until several hours later, despite her obvious distress.
The investigation into Kamila’s death revealed a more sinister narrative than the initial accident Woods described. Police discovered that at around 2 a.m., Woods searched the internet for “symptoms of broken ribs in children” multiple times, indicating his awareness of the severity of Kamila’s injuries. However, instead of seeking immediate medical help, he waited until the morning, at around 6 a.m., to take action. The autopsy results were damning. They showed that Kamila suffered multiple rib fractures, injuries to the liver, and extensive bleeding and swelling of the brain. These injuries, according to medical experts, were consistent with being violently squeezed and shaken, not merely from being tossed in the air as claimed by Woods.
The severity of the crime led to Woods facing multiple charges, including two counts of felony murder. The court proceedings culminated in a 10-hour jury deliberation before returning a guilty verdict. Given the gravity of the offense and the age of the victim, prosecutors pursued and were granted a life sentence for Woods, reflecting the heinous nature of his actions.
Assistant District Attorneys L. Trejo and C. Lewis prosecuted the case. The trial also highlighted the bravery of Kamila’s mother, who, despite her grief, played a crucial role in bringing the case to justice. The case has left an indelible mark on the community. District Attorney P. Gatson expressed deep sorrow for the loss of such a young life in what she described as a preventable and senseless act of violence. She hopes that the sentencing will bring some measure of peace to Kamila’s family, though the scars of such a tragedy are long-lasting.
The police department, along with the medical examiner’s office and local law enforcement, were commended for their thorough investigation, which ensured that justice was served. This case not only highlights the tragic outcomes of domestic violence but also underscores the legal system’s role in addressing and punishing such brutal acts to protect the most vulnerable members of society.
