Authorities in Ascension Parish, Louisiana, have arrested a local couple following the death of their five-year-old son, who weighed only 19 pounds when deputies found him unresponsive on New Year’s Day.
Marlon Perilloux, 33, and Raynisa Young, 27, are being held without bond at the Ascension Parish Jail. Both face charges of negligent homicide and second-degree cruelty to juveniles, as well as multiple drug and weapons offenses.
The investigation began on the evening of January 1, when deputies responded to a medical emergency at a Geismar gas station. There, five-year-old Marley Perilloux was found unresponsive in his father’s care. Despite immediate life-saving efforts, the child was pronounced dead at a nearby hospital.
Detectives with the APSO Juvenile Unit launched an investigation, noting visible injuries and signs of severe neglect. A subsequent search of the home revealed “poor” and barely livable conditions, which authorities allege were the result of the parents’ negligence.
Interviews with Perilloux and Young indicated the couple failed to provide essential care, including proper hygiene, medical attention, and adequate nutrition. At five years old, Marley weighed approximately 19 pounds, a weight typical of an infant rather than a child his age.
In addition to the charges related to their son’s death, the couple faces counts of possession with intent to distribute marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, and illegal carrying of weapons.
Authorities stated the investigation remains ongoing, and additional or upgraded charges could be forthcoming.