From The Fourth Circuit Solicitor”s Office
DILLON COUNTY, S.C. — Following a five-day General Sessions jury trial in Dillon County, a jury found Adrian Contreras guilty on June 1, 2026, of Homicide by Child Abuse in connection with the death of his thirteen-month-old son, Isaiah.
Evidence presented during the trial established that Isaiah suffered multiple injuries throughout his short life, including six fractures and numerous unexplained bruises. Testimony and evidence further showed that the fatal injury was a spinal fracture that resulted in a ruptured aorta, causing the child’s death.
Although Isaiah’s death occurred in 2018, the case remained under investigation for several years before ultimately proceeding to trial.
The case was prosecuted on behalf of the State by Senior Assistant Solicitor John Jepertinger and Senior Deputy Solicitor Kernard Redmond. The Honorable Judge Eugene C. Warr presided over the trial.
Sentencing is scheduled for June 23, 2026, in Dillon County General Sessions Court. Homicide by Child Abuse is punishable by a sentence of 20 years to life imprisonment upon conviction.
“The conviction in this case reflects the dedication and persistence of the investigators, medical professionals, and prosecutors who worked tirelessly to seek justice for Isaiah,” said Solicitor Paul M. Burch Jr. “While no verdict can undo this tragic loss, we are grateful to the jury for their careful consideration of the evidence and their service to our community.”
Thurmond Brooker represented the defense.
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