by Ogden, Utah — A 23-year-old Utah man has been sentenced to prison in connection with the death of his 12-year-old brother, who investigators say endured years of abuse, neglect and extreme confinement before dying in 2024.
Tyler Peterson appeared in a Weber County courtroom after previously pleading guilty to child abuse homicide, two counts of aggravated child abuse and obstruction of justice.
The charges stem from the death of Gavin Peterson, who died of sepsis on July 9, 2024, according to court documents obtained by media outlets.
Investigators said an examination of the child’s body revealed severe malnutrition, with internal organs shutting down.
Surveillance and Confinement Allegations
According to a probable cause affidavit, Tyler called emergency services the day Gavin died. Investigators with the Weber County Sheriff’s Office later examined his phone and found that he had texted his father about 20 minutes earlier stating Gavin had stopped breathing.
Authorities allege that after that message, Tyler was captured on surveillance video making multiple trips to a shed before calling 911. Investigators believe those trips were made to hide surveillance equipment used to monitor Gavin.
Court documents state that Gavin was frequently confined to an empty room that lacked basic furnishings. The room allegedly had a locking mechanism preventing him from leaving.
Investigators also searched phones belonging to Tyler, his father Shane Peterson and his stepmother Nichole Scott. According to the affidavit, images recovered from a deleted folder showed the child alone in the room under concerning conditions.
Authorities described evidence suggesting prolonged confinement and neglect.
Family Members Previously Sentenced
Tyler’s father and stepmother were sentenced last year for their roles in the case.
During Tyler’s sentencing hearing, his defense team argued that he was neurodivergent and had also experienced abuse within the household. A letter from his mother asked the court to consider allowing him to continue treatment outside of prison.
Prosecutors, however, argued that Tyler was an active and willing participant in the abuse.
Judge’s Decision
Camille Neider, the presiding judge in the case, described it as one of the most difficult cases of her career.
“You were an active participant since 2020. There’s no doubt about all of that,” the judge told Tyler during sentencing.
He was sentenced to:
- Five years to life for child abuse homicide
- One to 15 years for each count of aggravated child abuse
- One to 15 years for obstruction of justice
Read Also: California Man Sentenced to 54 Years for Online Grooming and Abduction of 10-Year-Old
The sentences will run concurrently. He was credited for 246 days already served, meaning he could be eligible for release after five years, depending on parole decisions.
Ongoing Impact
The case has drawn attention across Utah due to the severity of the allegations and the tragic outcome.
Authorities have emphasized the importance of reporting suspected child abuse and neglect to appropriate agencies.
If you suspect child abuse, you can contact the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-422-4453 for confidential assistance.
What are your thoughts on how courts balance accountability and rehabilitation in cases involving family members? Share your perspective respectfully in the comments below.
