Bodycam Footage Shows Police Welfare Check Before Deaths of South Carolina Toddlers

Bodycam footage from a police welfare check on August 30 shows Justine May, 31, interacting with officers just weeks before her two toddlers were found deceased in their home. May was arrested on September 29 and faces homicide charges in connection with the deaths of 15-month-old Harlow Deacon and 2-year-old Emory Deacon. During the welfare check, May asked officers how they could help her and refused to let them enter her home. When questioned about her mental health, she deflected and blamed her ex-fiancé, asserting that he was lying about her condition. Officers noted that no one, including the children's father, Zack Deacon, had seen the children for a week prior to the check. A social worker on scene expressed concern about May's declining mental health following her separation from Deacon, but May denied any issues. The house appeared clean and orderly during the check. The Charleston County Sheriff’s Office conducted 13 welfare checks at the home before the children's deaths, but found no immediate danger. Sheriff Carl Ritchie stated that the decision to discontinue further checks was based on the information available at the time. May reportedly told police she had been in a 'blur' and could not recall when she last fed her children. The sheriff’s office is reviewing body camera footage to assess the children's condition leading up to their deaths. Zack Deacon has engaged legal counsel to investigate the police's actions and potential negligence in the case. His lawyer, Gedney Howe, emphasized the need for transparency regarding the investigation.