1st-Degree Murder Charges Filed Against Brandon Woman In Child's Death

BRANDON, FL — The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office has announced new charges against a woman arrested on May 19 following the death of a 2-year-old.

Sheriff's deputies HCSO responded to an emergency call in the 10025 N U.S. 301 near Palm River Road for a report of a 2-year-old in distress.

Despite the efforts of the deputies to save the toddler, the child was pronounced dead at the scene.

During the initial investigation, detectives said they discovered that the child had sustained injuries while in the care of Rebecca Louise Gussage-Johnston, 24. Gussage-Johnston admitted to punishing the child to punishment the day before for "acting out."

The child was confined to a chair for an extended period without receiving any care from Gussage-Johnston. Even though Gussage-Johnston had a working cell phone, she failed to seek medical assistance for nearly 24 hours. Finally, a concerned family member called 911, said detectives.

Gussage-Johnston was arrested on May 19 for aggravated child abuse resulting in great bodily harm and child neglect. After consultation with the medical examiner's office, the cause of death was determined to be homicide due to severe neglect.

On June 15, the sheriff's office charged Gussage-Johnston with an additional charged of first-degree murder while engaged in aggravated child abuse.

"These charges reflect the seriousness and gravity of this horrific crime. The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office has unrelenting fervor in our pursuit of justice for innocent children hurt by criminals," said Sheriff Chad Chronister. "It is truly heart-wrenching to witness such senseless and preventable acts of violence targeting our youth. The tenacity of our detectives has allowed us to ensure this woman faces the consequences of her disgusting actions."

Gussage-Johnston remains in jail on $47,500 bail.

The sheriff's office urges anyone with additional information about this case to call 813-247-8200.