Attorney General Todd Rokita commended the Indiana Supreme Court’s unanimous decision to affirm the murder conviction and life-without-parole sentence of Chelsea Crossland for the tragic death of her five-year-old son, Christian Crossland.
The Court’s ruling upholds the Jay Circuit Court’s judgment, ensuring justice for a young victim who suffered unimaginable abuse and neglect.
“This decision sends a clear message that those who commit heinous crimes against our most precious gift - our children - will face the full force of the law,” said Attorney General Rokita. “Christian Crossland endured starvation, beatings, and confinement at the hands of his mother, and his life was cut short in a manner that shocks the conscience. We are grateful for the Supreme Court’s thorough review and affirmation of the trial court’s judgment, which holds Chelsea Crossland accountable for her actions.”
The Supreme Court rejected Crossland’s claims that she was denied an impartial jury due to pretrial publicity and that her constitutional right to present a complete defense was violated. The Court found that the trial court acted appropriately in denying a change of venue, did not deprive Crossland of a peremptory challenge, and properly excluded certain evidence, noting the overwhelming evidence of Crossland’s guilt.
This evidence included testimony that Christian was confined to a closet, starved and dehydrated for nearly 74 days, and beaten, resulting in his death from blunt-force injuries from a piece of wood, a belt, and Crossland’s bare hands. His siblings gave different explanations for their mother’s abuse. One sister said Crossland withheld food from Christian because he “didn’t know his ABC’s” and “didn’t know like how to count to ten”. Another sister said Crossland “didn’t like him as much” as she liked her other children.
Attorney General Rokita praised the work of Deputy Attorney General Tyler Banks who represented the State in this case. “This case reflects the dedication of our justice system to protect children and hold perpetrators accountable,” Rokita added. “We will continue to fight for victims like Christian and ensure that their voices are heard.”
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