San Antonio, TX – A mother at the center of a heartbreaking and lengthy missing child investigation has been sentenced to 20 years in prison after pleading guilty to injury to a child by omission in connection with the death of her 18-month-old son, James Avi Chairez.
Child Last Seen in January 2021
Court records show that D’Lanny Reaneille Chairez, 22 at the time of her arrest, was last seen with James on January 4, 2021, at a Walgreens in San Antonio, as captured in security footage. However, the toddler had not been seen by family members since Thanksgiving of 2020, raising alarm.
As reported by KSAT News, the family said Chairez gave conflicting stories regarding James’ whereabouts, including claims that she had given him up for adoption to various individuals — none of which were verified.
Disturbing Evidence Found in Home
Following an investigation by San Antonio Police, search warrants were obtained for Chairez’s mobile home. Inside, officers discovered James’ car seat, stroller, diapers, toys, and a crib sheet stained with human blood — deeply disturbing signs that contradicted her earlier statements.
In May 2021, months after James was reported missing, human remains were discovered inside the trailer. Those remains were confirmed to be that of baby James, ending hopes for a safe return.
Mental Health Struggles and Confession
According to court documents, Chairez admitted to investigators that she was struggling with mental health issues and felt unprepared for motherhood. She reportedly said James “deserved better” and made several statements indicating emotional distress and regret over her inability to care for him.
The charges filed against her were not for direct harm, but rather for failing to seek proper care or protection for her child — a legal concept known as injury to a child by omission.
Sentencing Details and Time Served
On Tuesday, Chairez officially entered a guilty plea in a Bexar County court. She was then sentenced to 20 years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. However, records show she has been credited for 1,604 days already served in jail while awaiting trial, which will count toward her sentence.
Officials with the Bexar County District Attorney’s Office emphasized that while the plea does not erase the tragedy, it ensures that Chairez is held legally accountable.
A Case That Shook the Community
The case drew significant attention across Texas and the nation, with many following the search for baby James and later mourning the devastating outcome. The San Antonio community held vigils and shared messages of remembrance for the young child whose life ended far too soon.
Advocates have since called for increased awareness around postpartum mental health, and better community systems to support struggling mothers before tragedies occur.
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