In a disturbing case of child abuse, Johnny James, 41, and Kayla Clark, 42, were sentenced to lengthy prison terms for tying their 15-year-old daughter to a tree in the intense summer heat. The couple was arrested in 2024 after Washington County deputies were called to a property in Vera, Oklahoma, where the girl had been left outside in a harsh punishment for at least three days.
Upon arriving at the scene, deputies discovered the girl bound to a tree with visible wounds on her legs. Johnny James, the girl’s father, explained to officers that he had tied her up as punishment for what he considered bad behavior, stating that he didn’t know what else to do. Kayla Clark, James’ girlfriend, denied knowing about the abuse, despite the girl being visibly tied up in the open.
The two were charged with child abuse and child neglect. Both defendants waived their right to a jury trial and, in January 2025, pleaded guilty. On Wednesday, February 7, Johnny James was sentenced to 35 years in prison, and Kayla Clark received a 30-year sentence. Neither will be eligible for parole until they have served at least 85% of their sentences.
This disturbing case highlights the importance of protecting vulnerable children from abuse and neglect. Law enforcement officials hope this sentencing will send a strong message about the consequences of such cruel actions.
