A South Carolina mother reportedly told investigators that she could not recall the last time she provided food or care to her two young daughters, prior to the discovery of their bodies inside the family's residence.
A 31-year-old woman, identified as Justine Marie May, has been charged with two counts of murder for child abuse in connection with the deaths of the girls, which occurred on September 29 in Ladson, a town located outside Charleston.
Charleston County Sheriff's Office deputies conducted a welfare check at a residence following concerns about a minor's well-being. Upon their arrival, they encountered May outside the home, visibly distraught and exhibiting inconsistent behavior, as documented in sworn statements obtained by Fox News Digital.
A search of the residence by law enforcement officials resulted in the discovery of two deceased female minors.
May reportedly informed detectives during questioning that the preceding fortnight had been a period of borrowing, and she was unable to recall when she had last provided sustenance or hydration to her daughters.
The ages of the girls at the time of their deaths were approximately 1.5 and 2.5 years old, as stated in sworn testimony.
Documents reveal that May attributed the deaths of her daughters to malnutrition, suggesting that their demise was a direct result of inadequate nutrition.
The woman stated that she was the sole occupant of the residence and the sole caregiver for the girls in the weeks leading up to their tragic demise.
Researchers have alleged that May demonstrated a callous disregard for human life by failing to provide her daughters with essential sustenance and hydration, a circumstance that is believed to have significantly contributed to their demise.
The Charleston County Sheriff's Office confirmed that its agents had prior interactions with May and the girls on multiple occasions before their discovery of the deceased individuals.
Records indicate that social services had two visits with the family in August and three in September. The final documented visit took place on September 20, while the girls were still alive.
During these interactions, law enforcement agents would not have been able to identify any overt signs or indicators that suggested the minors were at risk.
A Charleston County Sheriff's Office internal review is underway to assess the agency's response to the situation.
The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division's Special Victims Unit, in collaboration with the Department of Infant Deaths, is actively participating in the ongoing investigation.
May was charged with homicide by child abuse under South Carolina law in both instances.
According to Charleston County prison records, obtained by Fox News Digital, Christopher May was incarcerated on September 29 and remained in detention until his release on the preceding Friday.
Prosecution documents reveal two felony counts of murder resulting from child abuse.
Authorities are conducting a thorough review of the events leading up to the tragic deaths of the two girls, as well as the interactions between the family and the various agencies involved prior to the discovery.
