A Virginia man, Casey Mobley, 35, is headed to prison for brutally beating his 12-year-old stepson, who has autism, after the child ate bread in bed.
Mobley, who pleaded guilty to child abuse in March, was sentenced to two years in prison, far exceeding the recommended sentencing guidelines of six months.
The Incident
The disturbing incident occurred on July 14, 2023, when Mobley became enraged after discovering that his stepson had eaten bread in bed. According to reports, Mobley cursed at the boy before beating him in the buttocks and face.
The attack lasted approximately 30 seconds and was recorded on closed-circuit television, providing crucial evidence of the abuse.
At the sentencing hearing, Smyth County Commonwealth’s Attorney, Phillip “Bucky” Blevins, called the Virginia sentencing guidelines, which recommended a mere six-month jail term, “out of touch” with the severity of the crime. The judge agreed with Blevins’ argument, sentencing Mobley to two years in prison, followed by three years of probation.
The Prosecution’s Statement
Blevins condemned Mobley’s actions, labeling him a “monster” who showed no mercy toward a vulnerable child. “The young man was vulnerable, innocent, and deserving of love and protection – not violence,” Blevins said.
He expressed gratitude for the judge’s decision to go beyond the sentencing guidelines, sending a strong message that those who harm children will face severe consequences.
The case highlighted the need for more stringent punishments for child abuse, with Blevins emphasizing that his office would continue to prosecute child abusers to the fullest extent of the law. “Let this be a message to anyone who would harm a child: we will find you, prosecute you, and seek justice for our victims,” Blevins added.
The Judge’s Ruling
The judge’s decision to exceed the sentencing guidelines was met with praise from the Smyth County community, with many applauding the action as necessary to ensure that child abusers face appropriate punishment.
The decision also served as a reminder that some crimes, particularly those involving vulnerable children, demand more than what standard guidelines suggest.
Casey Mobley’s sentencing to two years in prison reflects the severity of his crime, as he physically attacked a defenseless 12-year-old with autism for a trivial reason.
The case has brought attention to the inadequacy of certain sentencing guidelines in addressing the brutality of child abuse, with prosecutors and the judge calling for more substantial consequences.
Mobley’s actions were deemed inexcusable and will be punished to the full extent of the law, sending a clear message that child abuse will not be tolerated.
