Key facts
- Damien O'Brien, 40, and Jessica O'Brien, 41, are charged with murder, torture, and child abuse.
- Their 7-year-old son, Casper O'Brien, died weighing 255 pounds.
- The child's cause of death was dilated cardiomyopathy, with his weight as a contributing factor.
- Prosecutors allege the parents failed to provide proper nutrition and medical care.
- The home was found in a state of disarray with piles of trash.
- A 5-year-old daughter was placed in foster care.
Michigan parents Damien O'Brien, 40, and Jessica O'Brien, 41, have been charged with second-degree murder, torture, and three counts of second-degree child abuse in the death of their 7-year-old son, Casper O'Brien. The boy weighed 255 pounds at the time of his death in November. Prosecutors allege the parents failed to provide proper nutrition and medical care, contributing to his death from dilated cardiomyopathy.
Genesee County Prosecutor David Leyton stated that the parents were clearly feeding the child improperly and that he was not receiving adequate nutrition. Casper, who was nonverbal and bedridden, suffered from severe bed sores and rashes. Authorities believe his diet consisted primarily of snack foods. The family had healthcare, but the parents allegedly did not seek treatment for Casper.
Law enforcement and Child Protective Services reported finding piles of trash in the home, and Casper was not enrolled in school. The child's autopsy report listed dilated cardiomyopathy as the cause of death, with his weight being a contributing factor. He was medically classified as obese, standing 4 feet, 2.5 inches tall.
Casper last saw his primary care provider in February 2024, weighing 104 pounds, where he was diagnosed with a cough, congestion, and metabolic disease. His mother was provided with information on healthy diet and exercise, and he was referred to a pediatric endocrinologist but never saw one. One of the child abuse charges pertains to the couple's 5-year-old daughter, who has been placed in foster care. The O'Briens are being held without bond pending a probable cause hearing.