TAMPA, Fla. — A woman was taken into custody following the death of a two-year-old child under her care due to severe neglect, as confirmed by the medical examiner’s office.
The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) received an emergency call on U.S. Highway 301 near Raulerson Ranch Road in Tampa, prompting deputies to respond. Dispatch informed them about a distressed child.
Upon arrival at the scene, deputies located the toddler, who was later pronounced dead on-site.
During the initial investigation, it was revealed that the child had sustained injuries throughout their body. The caretaker of the child, 24-year-old Rebecca Louise Gussage-Johnston, admitted to subjecting the child to punishment the day before for alleged misbehavior when questioned by the deputies.
Investigators determined that Gussage-Johnston had confined the child to a chair for an extended period without providing any care or attention. Despite having a functioning cellphone, she failed to seek medical assistance for nearly 24 hours. Eventually, a concerned family member contacted 911 for help.
On May 19, Gussage-Johnston was arrested by the sheriff’s office on charges of aggravated child abuse resulting in severe bodily harm and child neglect. After consulting with the medical examiner’s office, the manner of death was classified as a homicide due to severe neglect.
In a recent update, investigators announced that Gussage-Johnston now faces additional charges of first-degree murder while engaged in aggravated child abuse, reflecting the gravity of this appalling crime. She remains in custody for the original charges.
Sheriff Chad Chronister expressed the relentless dedication of the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office in pursuing justice for innocent children victimized by criminals.
He described the acts of violence targeting children as senseless and preventable, commending the determination of their detectives to ensure that the woman faces the consequences of her reprehensible actions.
The investigation is ongoing, and the HCSO encourages anyone with further information about the case to contact them at 813-247-8200.
