Charleston, West Virginia Toddler’s Death Ruled a Homicide: Stepfather Sentenced to Life for Brutal Killing of 22-Month-Old Charlie Roberts, Mother Sentenced for Neglect
CHARLESTON, W.Va. — What began as a report of a tragic household accident has been exposed as a horrifying case of child abuse and murder that has devastated a West Virginia community. The death of 22-month-old Charlie Roberts in Charleston was first attributed to a choking incident, but months of investigation have revealed a far darker truth. Authorities now say the toddler was murdered by his stepfather, Christopher Stockton, while his mother, Paula Roberts, stood by and did nothing to stop the abuse.
From Tragedy to Crime Scene
On the day of Charlie’s death, emergency crews responded to the family’s residence in Kanawha County, where they found the toddler unresponsive. Christopher Stockton, who was caring for the child at the time, told investigators that Charlie had choked on a cookie. But when the medical examiner completed an autopsy, the results told a chillingly different story.
Charlie had suffered massive blunt force trauma to his abdomen, a fatal injury that could not be explained by a simple accident. Further examination revealed a grim pattern of older injuries — healing fractures, bruises in various stages, and evidence of prior trauma that pointed to prolonged abuse.
“This wasn’t just a one-time event,” said Kanawha County Sheriff’s Detective Annika Green, who led the investigation. “This child suffered, and someone should have stopped it.”
The Role of the Mother
Investigators turned their attention to Charlie’s mother, Paula Roberts, who initially claimed to be unaware of the extent of her son’s injuries. But phone records, medical reports, and witness testimony painted a different picture. Prosecutors said she had numerous opportunities to intervene — but failed to do so.
“She knew her child was in danger,” said Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Michelle Drake. “Instead of removing him from harm or seeking medical help, she allowed the abuse to continue.”
In a plea deal, Paula Roberts admitted guilt to child neglect resulting in death, a felony charge that carries serious consequences. She was sentenced to five years in prison, with the judge calling her inaction “a catastrophic failure of maternal duty.”
Stepfather Convicted of Murder
In a separate trial, Christopher Stockton, 28, faced charges of first-degree murder, child abuse resulting in death, and malicious wounding. After a week-long trial, a jury found him guilty on all counts, and he was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole.
The prosecution presented overwhelming evidence, including medical reports, testimony from pediatric trauma specialists, and disturbing digital evidence of prior abuse. Jurors wept as they viewed photos of Charlie’s injuries, many of which were days or even weeks old.
“There’s no justification, no excuse for what he did to that child,” said Kanawha County Circuit Judge Todd Vinson, who handed down the sentence.
Missed Opportunities and Systemic Failure
The tragedy has sparked outrage across West Virginia, particularly as records revealed that Child Protective Services (CPS) had received at least two complaints related to the family in the months prior to Charlie’s death. In both instances, no immediate action was taken, and the case was closed without removing the child from the home.
“This was preventable,” said State Delegate Sharon Davis, who has called for an independent investigation into CPS protocols. “We owe it to Charlie and every vulnerable child in our state to make sure this never happens again.”
A Community in Mourning
As the court proceedings wrapped up, community members gathered for a candlelight vigil outside the courthouse. Dozens of people — many of them parents — placed flowers, stuffed animals, and cards at a growing memorial near Charlie’s home.
“He was just a baby,” said neighbor Theresa Combs, holding back tears. “He had a whole life ahead of him. We failed him — all of us.”
Seeking Justice, Demanding Change
Charlie Roberts’ story is now a symbol of both unimaginable loss and a call to action. Advocates are urging lawmakers to strengthen mandatory reporting laws, improve oversight of child welfare agencies, and ensure timely responses to abuse reports.
“This case broke us,” said Detective Green, “but if it leads to change — if it saves even one other child — then maybe Charlie’s short life won’t have been in vain.”
If you suspect a child is being abused or neglected, call the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-4-A-CHILD (1-800-422-4453). Trained counselors are available 24/7.