GRIFFIN, GA — On Thursday, May 1, Judge Benjamin Coker sentenced both Krista and Tyler Schindley to 40 years in prison plus 20 years probation.

The Spalding County couple accused of starving and abusing their 10-year-old son, plead guilty to multiple charges in a case that drew statewide attention for its disturbing details.

The pair had faced a range of charges, including attempted murder, aggravated assault, aggravated battery, child cruelty, and false imprisonment. Earlier in the day, they entered guilty pleas, avoiding a full trial. They have been held without bond since their arrests two years ago.

Prosecutors say the couple’s son was discovered wandering a Griffin neighborhood alone, hungry, and frightened. At the time, he weighed just 37 pounds, roughly the size of a typical 5-year-old and wore clothing meant for a much younger child. Authorities said he had been starved, beaten, and confined to a dark, unfurnished bathroom, isolated from his siblings.

Griffin Police Sgt. Chris Webb, one of the first officers to encounter the boy, previously testified, “The appearance, the weight, the discoloration of the body in certain areas, it was clear something was going on.”

Photos reviewed by investigators showed the child’s scars and bruises in various stages of healing. His living space lacked furniture, hot water, and basic toiletries, while his siblings’ rooms were filled with toys and proper bedding.

Defense attorneys had claimed that the parents were overwhelmed and did not intend harm.

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WSB Radio’s Ashley Simmons and Ann Powell contributed to this story.