Oregon Couple Sentenced for Torturing 5-Year-Old Girl, Inflicting Extensive Injuries
September 2, 2024
OREGON: A disturbing case of child abuse has led to the sentencing of an Oregon couple, Larissa Ducan and Javon Ingram, for torturing a 5-year-old girl in their care. Ducan, 47, pleaded guilty to two counts of criminal mistreatment and one count of assault, receiving a 10-year prison sentence. Ingram pleaded guilty to four counts of assault and two counts of criminal mistreatment, receiving a 15-year prison sentence.
The investigation began in November 2021 when the girl was taken to Randall Children's Hospital in Portland, severely malnourished and with injuries all over her body. A child abuse pediatrician determined that the girl had been tortured, with injuries including open sores, fractures, brain bleeds, and evidence of physical restraint, blindfolding, and gagging.
Detectives found zip ties, duct tape, and a dog shock collar in the homes where the girl lived, as well as nearly 30 videos on Ingram's phone showing the girl being restrained and forced to exercise. The girl told hospital staff that she had been chained to a door, wearing a dog shock collar, and had not been potty trained.
Ducan's attorney claimed that she was under the influence of drugs and alcohol and took on a "more passive" role in the abuse. Ducan declined to address the court. The girl, now 8, has been placed into the custody of another guardian.
The girl's family has filed a lawsuit against Oregon's Department of Human Services, claiming that the agency ignored reports of abuse. A DHS spokesperson declined to comment on the lawsuit but emphasized the agency's commitment to investigating all cases that meet legal criteria.
