Caregiver pleads guilty to second-degree murder for Athena Brownfield’s death
By Meghan Mosley
Click here for updates on this story
CADDO COUNTY, Oklahoma (KOCO) — A caregiver on Wednesday pleaded guilty to murder and other charges in connection with the death of 4-year-old Athena Brownfield.
Alysia Adams, who was one of two caregivers charged for Brownfield’s disappearance and death, pleaded guilty to second-degree murder, child neglect and obstructing an officer.
A Caddo County judge sentenced Adams to life in prison for two of the charges, but they are 85 percent crimes – meaning she has to serve at last 85 percent of her time.
Alysia Adams pleads guilty
The plea came during a court appearance on Wednesday. KOCO 5 Reporter Meghan Mosley said Adams entered the courtroom crying, and the court heard victim impact statements.
Adams also apologized and said she regrets her decision.
“These three years have been hard. I’ve gotten close with God. I also loved her, and I’m so sorry for the hurt we caused,” Adams said.
Athena Brownfield’s disappearance and murder
The situation started on Jan. 10, 2023, after a mail carrier found Brownfield’s sister in Cyril, prompting law enforcement and OSBI agents to conduct a large search for the 4-year-old girl.
Brownfield’s remains were eventually found in rural Grady County, just outside of Rush Springs. Court documents revealed that Brownfield was killed on Christmas Day 2022.
Adams and her husband, Ivon, were charged in Brownfield’s death. Alysia Adams was offered deals in the past, which she turned down.
In 2024, the Caddo County District Attorney filed a motion recommending that the death penalty be considered in Adams’ case.
Please note: This story was provided to CNN Wire by an affiliate and does not contain original CNN reporting. This content carries a strict local market embargo. If you share the same market as the contributor of this article, you may not use it on any platform.