In a chilling case from Fairview Heights, Illinois, Shemeka Williams, 46, is facing multiple charges, including first-degree murder, after allegedly killing her 18-year-old foster daughter, Mackenzi Felmlee, in May 2024.
Authorities have revealed disturbing details about the abuse Felmlee suffered under Williams’ care, including horrifying footage that was shown in court during a bond hearing last week.
The Abusive Relationship and the Final Moments
Williams is accused of months of abuse and psychological torment leading up to Felmlee’s death. On May 11, 2024, police responded to a call about an unresponsive teen at Williams’ home on Patricia Drive.
When they arrived, they found Felmlee lying at the bottom of a staircase, unresponsive and in critical condition, allegedly under the care of Williams and her foster grandmother, Cornelia M. Reid, 64, who is also charged with murder.
Court proceedings revealed disturbing cellphone footage captured in the aftermath of the tragedy. The video showed Williams mocking and taunting Felmlee, who was lying lifeless on the floor. According to local reports, Felmlee could be heard wheezing, her legs contorted as she struggled to extend one.
Williams allegedly pushed her leg back and made disturbing remarks, including telling Felmlee, “She acts like she’s dead. She just needs sleep.”
The footage showed Williams slapping Felmlee on her chest and lifting her limp body before placing it on her lap. Williams then allegedly ordered her biological daughter to call Reid for help, though Reid was not present at the time. The video, described as “horrifying” by Judge Sara Rice, played a key role in Williams’ continued detention.
Allegations of Ongoing Abuse and Psychological Torture
Prosecutors presented additional evidence that painted a disturbing picture of the abuse Felmlee endured in the months leading up to her death. Video footage reportedly shows Felmlee being forced to face a wall while repeatedly insulting herself, saying things like, “I am a doof, I hate myself.”
In another instance, Williams allegedly struck Felmlee numerous times with a belt while the teen said, “It is not good to manipulate.” In response, Williams allegedly said, “Good job. Are you crying?” to which Felmlee responded, “No, ma’am.”
The abuse also included cruel punishment, such as the use of a “whooping stick” and other physical assaults. In a shocking text from August 2023, Williams allegedly described assaulting Felmlee, saying, “I was whooping her a—. She’s pretending to have bulimia.”
Further details of the abuse came to light when prosecutors revealed an incident in March 2024 where Williams allegedly forced Felmlee to place “poopy underwear” into a medical mask, which she then made the teen wear.
Williams’ Defense and Plea
At the bond hearing, Williams’ defense attorney, Rob Bas, argued that while Williams may have been “rough” with Felmlee, it was similar to how a coach might treat a player in sports.
He further pointed to footage where Williams made Felmlee face a sign labeled “Seven Rules of Life,” which contained motivational phrases like “Let it go: Never ruin a good day by thinking about a bad yesterday” and “Smile: Life is short.
Enjoy it while you have it.” Bas maintained that Williams is innocent and has pleaded not guilty to the charges against her, including first-degree murder, involuntary manslaughter, aggravated domestic battery, intimidation, unlawful restraint, and domestic battery.
The Community’s Response
As the case unfolds, the community has expressed shock and outrage over the abuse Felmlee suffered. The disturbing details presented in court have raised questions about the foster care system and how such severe abuse went unnoticed for so long. Williams had been a foster parent for 12 years before Felmlee’s death, and her actions have left the community reeling.
The case of Mackenzi Felmlee’s death serves as a heartbreaking reminder of the potential dangers that exist within some foster homes. The abuse and manipulation she allegedly endured under Shemeka Williams’ care culminated in a tragic death that has left her family, friends, and the community devastated.
As the legal proceedings continue, the focus remains on the lasting impact of this senseless tragedy and the pursuit of justice for Mackenzi.
