During the sentencing on February 26, as reported by a journalist from 12 News, the hearing concluded in less than 10 minutes. Additionally, Richardson received a directive to cover court costs amounting to $577.
During his trial on December 4, 2023, Richardson entered a plea of no contest to the murder charge. The following day, Judge David Janes, who also presided over the sentencing hearing on Monday, made the ruling that Richardson would not receive mercy.
Richardson expressed her remorse and offered an apology to the victim’s family and the Fairmont community prior to the sentencing hearing on Monday. She humbly asked for forgiveness in her statement.
Richardson’s attorney requested that he be incarcerated in a facility in northern West Virginia to make it more convenient for his family members to visit him after the ruling. However, Judge Janes clarified that the decision on where Richardson serves his sentence would be made by the West Virginia Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation.
In January 2022, Breeana Bizub and Tabetha Phillips-Friend, two former CPS workers involved in the case, pleaded no contest and agreed to pay restitution for their failure to report abuse.