Leilani Simon was sentenced to life in prison on Thursday for the murder of her 20-month-old son, Quinton Simon, whose body was found at a Chatham County, Georgia landfill in 2022. Following a 30-day search through 1.2 million pounds of trash, authorities uncovered Quinton's remains, leading to Simon’s arrest and conviction on 19 charges, including malice murder, felony murder, concealing a death, and making false statements.
During sentencing at the Chatham County Courthouse, Judge Tammy Stokes sentenced Simon to life with the possibility of parole, plus 10 years. Prosecutors had recommended life without parole plus 65 years, while the defense requested life with parole. Simon declined to address the court or testify during her trial but requested her son's remains be released to her brother, Paul Simon. "I want my baby home," she said.
Detective Marian Lemmons testified about Simon’s attempts to divert suspicion, claiming random vehicles, Quinton’s father, and the babysitter were involved. Lemmons said Simon showed no hesitation in implicating others, reflecting her lack of accountability.
Family and friends expressed varying perspectives. Michelle McCarta’s daughter, Talea, shared her family’s deep love for Quinton, lamenting that Simon never sought their help. Simon’s brother Paul requested leniency, emphasizing his sister’s youth and the possibility of eventual redemption. Simon’s stepfather and mother also pleaded for compassion, with her mother, Billie Jo Howell, expressing guilt for not being a better parent and grandparent.
Prosecutors presented evidence including videos, phone records, and police footage to build their case. Assistant District Attorney Jenny Parker described Simon as a "monster," highlighting her calculated actions. The defense countered, arguing the case was built on speculation rather than concrete evidence.
Ultimately, Simon was accused of assaulting Quinton with an unknown object and disposing of his body in a trash bin. The tragic case deeply impacted the community, with Judge Stokes acknowledging Quinton’s short life had left a lasting mark.
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