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MONROE, N.C.–Kilah Davenport and her family made their way out of a Union County courtroom after a tough and emotional day. “I’m very pleased. I think justice is served,” said Kilah Davenport’s Grandmother Leslie Davenport.
A jury found Joshua Houser, Kilah Davenport’s stepfather, guilty of felony child abuse. “It’s not really a win for anyone, because all of us are still going to suffer,” said Leslie Davenport.
In May of 2012, prosecutors say Houser physically assaulted Kilah and shoved her head through the wall of their home in Indian Trail. Kilah was left with permanent injuries to her skull and brain.
“Y’all never once said accused. Y’all said he severely beat her. Y’all had him tried before he even came in court,” said Joshua Houser’s father Terry Houser.
After the sentencing, Joshua Houser’s father expressed his outrage at media coverage of his son leading up to the trial. “Y’all found him guilty before he even went to court. I hope all of you all can sleep tonight,” said Terry Houser.
Kilah’s family says they are now focusing on passing Kilah’s law on the national level. “He’s eventually gonna walk out of jail and prison. And Kilah’s not gonna be able to do that. She is in prison in her body for what he’s done to her,” said Leslie Davenport.
Kilah’s prison includes a wheelchair. She’s forced to use her eyes and mouth to communicate.
A life sentence this little girl is still working to cope with. “She is one tough little cookie, and I give it to her,” said Kilah Davenport’s Mother Kirbi Davenport.
This case led to a new state law named after Kilah. It gives convicted child abusers 25 years to life in prison. A national version of Kilah’s law sponsored by Congressman Robert Pittinger is making its way through the U.S. Senate. The U.S. House passed it in December.
