At a Glance
- Marlon Perilloux and Raynisa Young arrested after son Marley, 5, dies weighing only 19 lbs and measuring 35 inches tall
- Child’s body fit in an infant body bag, sheriff’s colonel says, calling it worst neglect case in 34 years
- Home described as “barely livable” with trash-covered floors and stained mattresses; three siblings removed by state
- Why it matters: Case highlights extreme child neglect and systemic failure to protect vulnerable children
A 5-year-old Louisiana boy whose body was so small it fit into an infant body bag has died, prompting the arrest of both parents on charges of negligent homicide and child cruelty, authorities said.
The Ascension Parish Sheriff’s Office launched an investigation after deputies responded to a medical emergency at a Geismar gas station on January 1 around 9:00 p.m., according to a department release. Jonathan P. Miller reported for News Of Losangeles that responding officers found Marlon Perilloux, 33, performing CPR on his unresponsive son, Marley.
Deputies continued lifesaving efforts until emergency services arrived. The child was transported to a nearby hospital where staff worked on him for 40-45 minutes before pronouncing him dead, Col. Donald Capello told local station WAFB.
Discovery of Severe Malnourishment
Investigators quickly noted apparent injuries and signs of severe neglect. The sheriff’s office said Marley weighed approximately 19 lbs. and stood 35 inches tall at death-measurements far below average for a child his age. Authorities could not determine when he last ate.
Detectives obtained a search warrant for the family’s home, which they described as in “poor condition and barely livable.” Images released by WAFB show:
- Dirty, stained mattresses on the floor
- Trash scattered throughout rooms
- Conditions indicating prolonged neglect
Capello, a 34-year law-enforcement veteran, told WAFB this is “probably the worst case of child neglect I’ve seen.” He emphasized the child’s size by noting standard body bags come in adult and infant sizes, and Marley fit into an infant bag.
Parental Statements and Additional Victims
Interviews with Perilloux and Marley’s mother, Raynisa Young, 27, revealed the parents “failed to ensure proper hygiene, feeding, and medical care,” the sheriff’s office stated. Investigators learned the 5-year-old had been bedridden and never left the residence.
Following the couple’s arrest, the state removed three other children from the home. The sheriff’s office has not released their ages or conditions.
Charges and Court Status
Both parents were booked into the Ascension Parish Jail with no bond. They face multiple counts:
| Charge | Details |
|---|---|
| Negligent homicide | Related to Marley’s death |
| Second-degree cruelty to juveniles | Applicable to all children in the home |
| Possession with intent to distribute marijuana | Drug-related offenses discovered during investigation |
| Possession of drug paraphernalia | – |
| Illegal carrying of weapons | – |
The sheriff’s office said additional or upgraded charges are pending while the criminal investigation continues. An autopsy is underway to establish an official cause of death.
Broader Implications
The case underscores gaps in child-welfare oversight. Authorities have not disclosed whether the family had prior involvement with child-protective services, but the extreme malnourishment and hazardous living conditions suggest prolonged neglect.
Community members expressed shock. Capello told WAFB the department is committed to a thorough investigation and encouraged anyone with information to come forward.
Key Takeaways
- Marley’s death at 5 years old and 19 lbs points to chronic, severe neglect
- Parents Perilloux and Young face multiple felony charges including negligent homicide
- Three siblings are now safe under state care
- Investigation ongoing; autopsy results may lead to additional charges
