Office of the Attorney General
Attorney General Conway Announces Conviction of Murray Couple in Child Abuse Case

Attorney General Jack Conway and his Office of Special Prosecutions today announced the conviction of a Murray man and woman for their roles in a year-long course of serious physical abuse of children in their care.

Carol Elizabeth Erwin pled guilty today in Calloway Circuit Court to assault first degree, criminal abuse first degree, criminal abuse second degree, and two counts intimidating a participant in the legal process. Prosecutors are recommending ten years to serve on the conviction. As a result, Erwin will be classified as a violent offender, who must serve 85% of her sentence and is ineligible for any release prior to that time.

Derek Chandler pled guilty to two counts of complicity to criminal abuse second degree and two counts complicity to intimidating a participant in the legal process. As part of his plea agreement, Chandler agreed to serve four years in prison and waive probation and parole.

The investigation revealed, and the defendants have admitted, that Erwin inflicted a year-long course of abuse on a four-year-old child in her care, including numerous broken ribs, head injuries, and a leg burn. Chandler was convicted for permitting the abuse by Erwin to continue without intervention, despite his duty to protect the child.

The convictions stem from an investigation by the Calloway County Sheriff’s Office and child abuse forensic work by the University of Louisville Pediatric Forensics Program. Prosecutors of the Office of Special Prosecutions handled the case at the written request of the Sheriff of Calloway County.

"My administration has continued to make the protection of children, from abuse in any form, its top priority," said General Conway. "I appreciate state and local law enforcement officers working together on this case to provide justice for the children who suffered at the hands of these two individuals."

Final sentencing for Erwin and Chandler is set for May 26 at 9:30 a.m. (CDT) in Calloway Circuit Court.