JOHNSON COUNTY, Texas — Two women have been sentenced to prison after a jury found them guilty in connection with the death of a 4-week-old infant, according to the Johnson County District Attorney’s Office.
Brittany Nicole Bond, 32, was sentenced to nine years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice, while her mother, 53-year-old Lora Jo Needham, was sentenced to 12 years.
Both were convicted of injury to a child causing serious bodily injury following a jury trial that concluded on April 17, 2026.
Prosecutors said the case stemmed from an incident at a residence in Cleburne in which Bond placed her newborn in a bathtub with Needham, despite knowing Needham had a history of falling asleep in the tub.
Authorities said Needham fell asleep while the infant was in her care, leading to the child drowning. According to jail records, Needham weighs 371 lbs. The infant was transported to a hospital but died five days later.
“The mother and grandmother's reckless actions caused the death of the four-week-old infant,” Assistant District Attorney Matthew Staton said. “This was not an accident, but a wholly preventable tragedy — the child deserved far better.”
The Johnson County District Attorney’s Office also acknowledged the work of the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office in investigating the case.
“We know this case was incredibly difficult and emotionally heavy, and we truly appreciate the hard work, patience, and dedication that went into seeing it through,” the office said in a statement. “Your commitment to seeking justice does not go unnoticed.”
The case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorneys Michael Schneider and Matthew Staton.
