Mother sentenced for toddler's death

DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) - A Miamisburg mother has been sentenced to 10 years in prison for the death of her toddler.

Lisa Davis sobbed as she stood before a Montgomery County judge on Thursday and apologized for her actions which ultimately led to the death of her 2-year-old daughter, Elizabeth, back in 2004.

Officials said Davis routinely abused her daughter and neglected to get her medical care on the day of her death.

Montgomery County Prosecutor Mat Heck said, "As far as who dealt the final blow to this child, there was insufficient evidence in order to charge that. But, we certainly know this child died, is not with us today, because of what this defendant failed to do."

An autopsy revealed Elizabeth's body was covered in bruises, she was bleeding internally, and there was severe damage to her liver and bowel.

For five years detectives have been working the case, trying to collect enough evidence to charge Davis.

She was finally arrested back in 2009.

Earlier this year Davis pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter.  

The victim's father, Kevin John said, "I don't know what I was hoping for. I was just overall just glad that justice finally came through for Elizabeth."

John said he was kept from his daughter and never had to opportunity to meet her before she died.

He said, "My life has been on pause. It's like today it just finally pushed play again, waiting for this moment."

John's family calls this the closure they needed to move forward, and an important reminder for everyone to report child abuse and neglect before another child's life is lost.

John said, "Not to whisper behind closed doors, about it, to do something. Even if you feel it will affect your life, please speak out about it. Help the people you love."

Once Lisa Davis completes her 10 year sentence, she will then be on probation for an additional five years.