Matthew and Samantha Dylewski have each been sentenced to four years in prison, the maximum penalty, for the death of their three-year-old daughter, Joycelynn Ann Dylewski. The child died in February 2025 after living in squalid conditions in their New York home, suffering from a severe lice infestation that led to anaemia.
Deplorable Living Conditions
Prosecutors from Saratoga County described the home as deplorable. Assistant District Attorney Jennifer Buckley stated, “The lice infestation led to anaemia. And the anaemia took its toll on Joycelynn’s heart, her organs, and took a toll on her 3-and-a-half-year-old body.”
County Judge James R. Davis detailed grim evidence, including dead bugs falling from Joycelynn's hat. Investigators observed bugs all over her face and scalp, and a dead cockroach fell out of her winter hat when removed. Her teeth were described as “rotten and black.” One investigator noted that the home was among the worst living conditions he had ever seen, and he was advised not to enter.
Medical Neglect
The parents also failed to seek medical care for Joycelynn. Buckley revealed, “Joycelynn had not been to the doctor in approximately 10 months. The other children went to the doctor but Joycelynn was not taken.” The child had severe dental decay and high levels of the prescription drug Clonodine in her system, used to lower blood pressure.
Sentencing and Remorse
Both parents were sentenced for criminally negligent homicide, which carries a maximum of four years. Matthew expressed remorse, saying, “I totally wish that didn’t happen. I wish it was me that died instead of my daughter.” Samantha stated, “Nothing is ever going to change. I still want to die so I can be with her. As their mother, it’s my duty to protect them from harm, and I failed.”
Judge Davis told the pair, “Your entire job was to keep her safe. She was 3-years-old. And you failed in the most horrific way. She was completely reliant upon you. And you failed as a parent. This was completely preventable. And it’s unconscionable.” He added that their actions were “certainly deserving of more” than the maximum sentence.
Joycelynn's Law
New York State senators are now advocating for a law change, dubbed Joycelynn's Law, to make criminally negligent homicide a felony with a penalty of 20 years to life.
