A federal grand jury in the Southern District of Georgia has indicted Brandon M. Kelley, 29, and Stacey D. Kelley, 26, both residents of Fort Stewart Army Base in Liberty County, Georgia, on charges related to the death of their child, Vyolet Kelley. The indictment alleges that the couple deprived their child of adequate nourishment and medical care while living at Fort Stewart Military Reservation.
The indictment includes charges of Felony Murder and two counts of Second Degree Murder. According to authorities, the family resided at Fort Stewart because Brandon Kelley was an enlisted soldier during the period covered by the indictment.
Acting United States Attorney Tara M. Lyons commented on the case: “The allegations in this case are heartbreaking on many levels. Our office will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to pursue justice.”
The investigation was conducted by the United States Army Criminal Investigative Division. Assistant United States Attorneys Timothy P. Dean and E. Greg Gilluly, Jr., are prosecuting the case. If convicted, Brandon and Stacey Kelley could face up to life in prison; parole is not available in the federal system.
Officials emphasized that an indictment is only an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in court.
For further information or questions about this case, contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office at (912) 652-4422.