Utah parents plead no contest to child torture and abuse

A Utah couple, Jeremiah and Jennifer Perkins, have entered no contest pleas in connection with the severe malnutrition and alleged torture of an elementary school-aged child in Moab.

Jeremiah Perkins pleaded no contest to attempted child torture, while Jennifer Perkins pleaded no contest to aggravated child abuse. Both face potential sentences of up to 15 years in prison. Under the plea agreements, the state dropped original first-degree felony counts, and both defendants have agreed to have no contact with the victim until he turns 18.

Investigators reported that the child suffered extreme weight loss, losing approximately 13% of his body weight over five months. Authorities alleged the child was subjected to a strict vegan diet of primarily rice and vegetables, leading to severe malnutrition and refeeding syndrome. The boy was also reportedly confined in a dog kennel. Sentencing is scheduled for November 17.