Megan Boswell, a 24-year-old mother, has been sentenced to life in prison, plus 33 years, for the murder of her 15-month-old daughter, Evelyn. The sentencing, which took place in Tennessee, concludes a harrowing case that captured national attention following the toddler’s disappearance in February 2020. Boswell’s defiance during the proceedings, claiming unfair treatment by the state and insisting on her innocence, added a chilling layer to an already tragic narrative.
Evelyn was reported missing after being unaccounted for nearly two months, prompting a massive search effort involving local authorities, the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, and the FBI. As the investigation unfolded, inconsistencies in Boswell’s accounts of her daughter’s whereabouts raised suspicions among investigators. In March 2020, Boswell was charged with false reporting, and soon after, Evelyn’s remains were discovered in a trash can located in a playhouse on her grandfather’s property.
The trial, which lasted over a week, revealed startling evidence, including drone footage of the playhouse and testimonies from family members. Boswell’s father, Tommy Boswell, testified that he had not seen Evelyn during a family gathering in December 2019, reinforcing doubts about Boswell’s narrative. The jury deliberated for just four and a half hours before finding her guilty on multiple counts, including first-degree murder and aggravated child abuse.
During the formal sentencing, the prosecution argued for the maximum penalty, emphasizing the callousness of Boswell’s actions. Prosecutor William Harper highlighted the betrayal of trust a mother has towards her child, stating that Evelyn was “discarded like a piece of common garbage.” The judge remarked on Boswell’s lack of remorse throughout the trial and the extreme danger she posed to society, reinforcing the gravity of her offenses.
Despite the prosecution’s push for a life sentence without the possibility of parole, the jury opted for a life sentence that includes the possibility of parole after 51 years. Boswell’s attorney indicated plans to appeal the sentence, arguing for a reconsideration based on the jury’s apparent mercy in the sentencing phase.
The court detailed the sentence breakdown, explaining that the 25-year term for aggravated child abuse would run consecutively with the life sentence, while other counts would be served concurrently. The judge deemed probation inappropriate given the severity of the crimes and Boswell’s lack of empathy.
Now, Boswell will remain in custody at the Deborah K. Johnson Rehabilitation Center in Nashville as her legal team prepares for the appeal process. The case has left a profound impact on the community, highlighting the tragic loss of a young life and the complexities surrounding familial trust and accountability.
