JOHN TUCKER HARDEE | Man Convicted Of Killing 2-Year-Old Girl Maintains Innocence, Calls Death A Horrible Accident | Harley Rae Williams' Injuries From The Scalding-Hot Water Were So Bad, Her Skin Started To Peel Off | ALS

John Tucker Hardee. Autographed Letter, Signed. Handwritten, Commercial #10 (4.125 × 9.5 envelope). Virginia Beach, VA. September 13, 2024. Content unknown. SEALED.

John Tucker Hardee is a Virginia man who was sentenced to decades in prison for his involvement in the tragic death of his girlfriend's 2-year-old daughter, Harley Rae Williams. Here is a detailed report on the case:

Background

John Tucker Hardee, 38, lived in Norfolk, Virginia, with his girlfriend, Shelby Love, and her daughter, Harley Williams. Hardee had a history of child abuse, having been previously convicted in Virginia Beach.

John Tucker Hardee had a history of child abuse prior to the incident involving Harley Williams. In 2013, he was convicted of felony child neglect for severely beating his 14-month-old son. The injuries included a fractured skull, bruises covering the child's body, and three fractures in his spinal vertebrae. Hardee pleaded guilty to these charges and was sentenced to three years in prison, followed by 12 years of probation. As part of his probation, he was ordered to have no unsupervised contact with children. This prior conviction was a significant factor in the prosecution's case against Hardee for the death of Harley Williams, as it established a pattern of abusive behavior.

Incident Details

On April 23, 2018, Harley Williams was severely scalded by hot water while in Hardee's care. According to Shelby Love, Hardee was preparing to bathe Harley when he stepped out of the bathroom to make a call. During this time, Harley turned on the hot water and was burned.

Delay in Medical Treatment

Instead of seeking immediate medical help, Hardee and Love attempted to treat Harley's burns at home using petroleum jelly, bandages, cream, and medicine. Hardee refused to let Love call 911, fearing he would go to prison. It wasn't until Harley began having trouble breathing and experiencing seizures that Hardee finally called for emergency assistance. Unfortunately, Harley was pronounced dead shortly after arriving at the hospital.

In his trial, John Tucker Hardee's defense claimed that Harley Williams' scorching was an accident, caused by Harley accidentally turning on the hot water while Hardee was out of the bathroom. They also stated that the high temperature was due to a defective hot water heater. The defense also claimed that Hardee's delay in seeking medical attention was due to panic and fear of legal consequences, rather than intentional intent.

Legal Proceedings

During John Tucker Hardee's trial, the prosecution presented evidence that supported their case. Shelby Love, Harley Williams' mother, testified against Hardee, recounting the events that led to her death, including his failure to seek prompt medical attention and abusive behavior. The autopsy report found scorching problems, bruising, and scalp abrasions, which suggested earlier maltreatment. The prosecution used the delay in obtaining medical attention, which most certainly contributed to her death, as proof of Hardee's negligence and ill intent. Hardee's previous conviction for child abuse in Virginia Beach was also used to demonstrate a pattern of abusive behavior. Medical experts testified regarding the severity of Harley's burns and the possibility of survival with prompt medical treatment. These pieces of evidence contributed to Hardee's conviction for second-degree murder, felony child neglect, and malicious injury.

Sentencing

In May 2023, Norfolk Circuit Judge Jack Doyle sentenced Hardee to 45 years in prison, with 10 years suspended. This means Hardee will serve 35 years in prison, followed by 10 years of supervised probation. During the sentencing, Hardee expressed regret for his actions but also blamed a faulty hot water heater for the burns.

Impact and Aftermath

The case highlighted the severe consequences of child abuse and neglect. Harley Williams' death was a tragic reminder of the importance of seeking immediate medical help in emergencies. Shelby Love, who pleaded guilty to felony homicide and child neglect, was also held accountable for her role in the incident.

Conclusion

John Tucker Hardee's actions led to the untimely death of a young child, and his subsequent conviction and sentencing reflect the gravity of his crimes. The case serves as a sobering example of the devastating impact of child abuse and the critical need for timely medical intervention in emergencies.

VIDEO: 13News Now investigates: Harley's Story| https://youtu.be/YpiizumNs-c

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