⏱ 2 min read
Devon Mae Witryk, a 28-year-old mother and military spouse from Columbus, Ohio, has pleaded guilty to felony child neglect on Eglin Air Force Base in Florida. The crime occurred in June 2023, when a welfare investigation was initiated for Witryk’s child, who was not receiving proper care and supervision. Investigators inspected Witryk’s home and rescued the child, who is no longer in her custody.
Witryk’s plea was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida. Heekin praised the excellent work of the Eglin AFB Security Forces Investigations, saying they identified and put a stop to the abusive situation. Witryk faces up to 5 years in prison and will be sentenced on September 17, 2026, at the United States Courthouse in Pensacola, Florida.
The case was investigated by Eglin Air Force Base Security Forces Investigations and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Meredith L. Steer. The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida handled the prosecution.
The guilty plea brings an end to the case, but the consequences of Witryk’s actions will be felt for a long time. The child, who was severely neglected, is now safe and out of Witryk’s custody. Witryk’s sentence will be determined at the sentencing hearing in September.
📋 Key Facts
- Crime: Violent Crime
- Defendant: Florida
- Location: US
- Source: DOJ Press Release
