SC Mother Charged With Homicide After Infant Found Dead From Starvation

Homicide Charge Filed Following Death of 11-Month-Old in North Charleston

Janette Clayton, 27, now faces a charge of homicide by child abuse in connection with the death of her 11-month-old daughter, Nomai Weathers, according to an announcement made Friday by the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division. The development marks a significant escalation in the legal proceedings surrounding the infant’s death earlier this year. Clayton had previously been charged with three counts of unlawful conduct toward a child.

Nomai Weathers was discovered dead on June 17, 2026, near the front doorway of the family’s apartment in North Charleston. She was partially wrapped in a blanket at the time. Investigators found the child in a state of severe emaciation, weighing only 4 pounds and 13 ounces.

Medical Neglect and Living Conditions

According to documents detailed by KWQC, Nomai was born prematurely and had been diagnosed with sickle cell disease. This condition necessitated regular, medically essential appointments to manage her health. Records indicate that Clayton failed to bring the infant to these required medical visits.

An autopsy later ruled the manner of death a homicide, identifying the cause as starvation complicated by acute bronchopneumonia resulting from neglect. When officials entered the residence on the day the infant was found, they reported the environment was in “deplorable” condition, noting heavy infestations of cockroaches and flies. Authorities confirmed that no food or essential child care supplies were present in the apartment.

Departmental Review and Personnel Changes

The investigation into the circumstances of the home has extended beyond the mother. The North Charleston Police Department confirmed that two officers who had responded to the apartment prior to the discovery of the child’s death were placed on leave.

Following an internal review, one of the officers was subsequently fired and charged in connection with the case. The second officer involved in the initial response was later reinstated. The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division continues to lead the ongoing investigation into the case.

Earlier coverage: Mother Charged With Homicide After Infant Starved to Death