Ladson mother charged with child abuse homicide after welfare check reveals two dead children

Key points

• Justine Marie May, 31, was charged with two counts of homicide by child abuse following the discovery of two deceased individuals at her home on Pinewood Drive in Ladson.
• Deputies responded to a welfare check at the residence just after 1 p.m. on September 29 and found two people dead.
• May was booked into the Charleston County jail on September 29 and waived her bond hearing on September 30, remaining in custody.
• The Charleston County Coroner’s Office has not released the victims' identities, ages, or causes of death, but the charges indicate they were children.
• May is scheduled for an initial court appearance on November 20.
• The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division and the Charleston County Sheriff’s Office are jointly investigating the incident.

Background

This incident follows a pattern of child fatality investigations in the region, as noted in our archive of recent cases. The charges against May specifically cite child abuse, distinguishing this case from other recent homicide investigations in the area. The welfare check that led to the discovery of the victims suggests a prior concern for the household's well-being, which aligns with reports from family members about previous interventions.

How outlets are covering it

WCIV and Live 5 News report that the victims were found during a welfare check and that May has been charged with homicide by child abuse. Live 5 News highlights the emotional impact on the neighborhood, with residents expressing shock and grief over the incident. Post and Courier provides additional context, noting that May's family had expressed concerns about her mental health and the safety of her children in recent months, leading to multiple visits by law enforcement and social workers. WYFF reports that May was charged with homicide by child neglect, a slight variation in the charge description compared to the other outlets. All sources agree that the victims' identities and causes of death have not been released, and that May remains in custody pending her court appearance.

Why it matters

This case underscores the critical role of welfare checks in identifying and responding to potential child abuse situations. The charges against May highlight the legal consequences of child abuse and the importance of community and family vigilance in reporting concerns. The joint investigation by local and state authorities indicates the severity of the case and the commitment to ensuring justice for the victims. The emotional impact on the neighborhood also reflects the broader societal concern for child safety and the need for effective intervention mechanisms.

What to watch

Justine Marie May is scheduled for an initial court appearance on November 20. The Charleston County Sheriff’s Office and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division will continue their investigation into the deaths. The Charleston County Coroner’s Office is expected to release the victims' identities and causes of death as the investigation progresses. The community and family members will likely continue to advocate for justice and support for the victims' families.