Babysitter Terry McKirchy Pleads Guilty in 2019 Death Case Linked to 1984 Injury
A former babysitter, Terry McKirchy, pleaded guilty to manslaughter on Wednesday in connection with the 2019 death of Benjamin Dowling, a man she was accused of disabling as an infant 40 years ago. McKirchy, now 62, was sentenced to three years in prison for the tragic incident that occurred in 1984 when Benjamin was just 5 months old.
The Case of Benjamin Dowling: A Tragic Timeline
Benjamin Dowling’s life was forever altered in 1984 when he suffered a brain hemorrhage at McKirchy’s suburban Fort Lauderdale home. Investigators suspected that McKirchy had caused the injury by shaking him, although she had always denied harming him, even after pleading guilty in 1985 to injuring him. The incident left Benjamin with severe disabilities that he struggled with for the rest of his life.
After Benjamin’s passing at the age of 35, his parents, Rae and Joe Dowling, expressed a mix of emotions following McKirchy’s guilty plea. While they were relieved that McKirchy had finally admitted to hurting their son, they also acknowledged that nothing could bring Benjamin back or restore the life he should have had if not for the tragic events that occurred in his infancy. Benjamin never had the chance to walk, talk, or eat on his own, spending his days confined to a wheelchair.
McKirchy’s Guilt and Apology
In a letter of apology read to Benjamin’s parents by her attorney, McKirchy expressed remorse for her actions, admitting that she had struck Benjamin in a moment of impulse and anger while feeling overwhelmed and exhausted from caring for multiple children. She acknowledged the harm she had caused to both Benjamin and his family, expressing genuine sorrow for the pain and suffering she had inflicted.
During the court proceedings, McKirchy remained composed, showing little emotion as Benjamin’s mother and sister shared memories of him and highlighted the impact he had on their lives. Rae Dowling spoke of the valuable lessons Benjamin had taught everyone who knew him, emphasizing the loss felt by all who had the privilege of interacting with him.
McKirchy’s Legal History and Sentence
This wasn’t the first time McKirchy had faced legal consequences for Benjamin’s injuries. In 1985, she pleaded no contest to attempted murder for shaking Benjamin so severely that he suffered permanent brain damage. Despite the severity of the crime, McKirchy received a light sentence of weekends in jail for three months and three years of probation. However, in 2021, she was charged with Benjamin’s murder, leading to her recent guilty plea and sentencing.
The Dowlings’ Struggle for Justice
Throughout the decades following Benjamin’s injury, the Dowlings fought tirelessly for justice for their son, enduring surgeries, medical treatments, and ongoing care to ensure his comfort and well-being. Despite the challenges they faced, they remained devoted to Benjamin, including him in family activities and providing him with love and support until his passing in 2019.
Challenges in Shaken Baby Syndrome Cases
Shaken baby syndrome, now referred to as abusive head trauma, has been a contentious issue in the medical and legal fields for years. Initially used to explain sudden deaths in infants and young children with no apparent signs of abuse, the diagnosis of shaken baby syndrome has come under scrutiny due to advancements in medical research. Experts now recognize that symptoms previously attributed to shaking can also result from genetic conditions, illnesses, and accidents.
The American Academy of Pediatrics emphasizes the importance of recognizing signs of abusive head trauma in young children, including bruising on the torso, ears, and neck in children under 4 years old. Additionally, any bruising in infants younger than 4 months should be considered a potential indicator of shaking. By raising awareness of these signs, medical professionals hope to prevent further cases of abusive head trauma and protect vulnerable children from harm.
Moving Forward: Healing and Advocacy
As McKirchy begins her prison sentence for Benjamin Dowling’s death, the Dowlings continue to grapple with the loss of their beloved son and the trauma of his lifelong struggles. While nothing can erase the pain they have endured, they remain committed to honoring Benjamin’s memory and advocating for justice in his name.
In conclusion, the case of Benjamin Dowling serves as a tragic reminder of the long-lasting impact of childhood trauma and the importance of seeking justice for victims of abuse. As McKirchy faces the consequences of her actions, the Dowlings find solace in the memories of their son and the love they shared with him throughout his life. May Benjamin’s legacy inspire greater awareness and advocacy for those who have suffered from abusive head trauma, ensuring that their voices are heard and their stories are never forgotten.