Price sentenced to 40-years in death of toddler

A Brookings man is sentenced to 40-years for first-degree manslaughter for his role in the 2019 death of a two-year-old girl.

Robert Price, Jr. had earlier pleaded guilty as part of a deal. The state had recommended 40-years in the State Penitentiary.

Renae Fayant was sentenced in September to 75-years in prison for her role in the case. The little girl was Fayant’s niece. She admitted being the primary caregiver and did not dispute that the child had died because of malnourishment and dehydration. Fayant admitted she caused the little girl’s death.

In court Tuesday afternoon, the defendant’s lawyer argued that Price was rarely home and was not directly responsible for the girl’s care.

Judge Gregory Stoltenburg says there was “one other adult in the home who could have saved her from dying.” He says Price knew and “did nothing.” The judge says the child needed a voice and Price was silent.

Brookings County State’s Attorney Dan Nelson says Price had knowledge of what was happening and refused to act. Nelson says the 40-year sentence is appropriate.

November 30, 2021