“A FORMER criminal justice student” who filmed herself sexually abusing a baby boy in Mississippi has been jailed for 20 years.
On Thursday, Tiffany Meghan McClellan, 29, was sentenced to two decades behind bars – with another 20 years probation tacked on – after she pleaded guilty to the sexual battery of the infant in Petal.
Forrest County Circuit Court Judge Robert Helfrich ordered that McCellan serve her sentence in its entirety, reported WLOX.
A social media profile cited by media outlets reported that the Mississippi woman described herself as a former criminal justice student.
McCellan was booked in August 2018 after police were alerted to the footage of her sexually abusing the baby on camera – but it isn’t clear how they became aware of it.
Her relationship to the child wasn’t revealed to protect the youngster’s identity.
It’s been alleged in some reports that she started filming the abuse at the behest of another person.
Investigators haven’t said whether they’ve arrested or charged anyone else in connection with the disturbing case, however.
McClellan won’t be freed until 2040 and will be locked up for her whole sentence – as well as registering as a sex offender upon her release.
Speaking about her sentencing, Forrest County prosecutor Lin Carter credited the cops involved in the case, which was headed up by PPD Lt. Sammy Ray.
“I would like to recognize the great investigation in this case by Lt Ray and the Petal Police Department, which lead to rescuing an infant boy from a home where he was being sexually abused and exploited,” Carter said.
“This defendant will serve 20 years day-for-day behind bars. Nothing is more sacred than the safety and well being of our children.
“My office will continue to prioritize the prosecution of violent criminals, including those that abuse children.”
