Jeremiah and Jennifer Perkins, a Utah couple accused of severely mistreating a young boy in their care, have pleaded no contest to reduced felony charges in connection with a case that involved allegations of severe malnutrition and repeated physical abuse.
The couple entered their pleas Tuesday, Oct. 6, in Seventh District Court in Moab. Jeremiah Perkins pleaded no contest to attempted child torture, a second-degree felony, while Jennifer Perkins pleaded no contest to aggravated child abuse. The original first-degree child torture charges were dropped as part of the agreements.
Both defendants could face up to 15 years in prison, although probation remains possible. Their sentencing hearing is scheduled for Nov. 17.
The case began after authorities became concerned about the condition of the boy, who was placed under Jennifer Perkins’ guardianship in March 2025. Court documents say his health began deteriorating several months later, with the child losing roughly 13% of his body weight over a five-month period.
When Moab police and the Utah Division of Child and Family Services encountered him in October 2025, investigators described the boy as extremely frail. He was later found to be suffering from severe malnutrition and refeeding syndrome, a potentially dangerous condition that can occur when nutrition is restored after prolonged severe malnutrition.
Investigators said the child had been restricted to a diet consisting largely of rice and vegetables. According to court documents, his hunger became so severe that he consumed items that were not food, including Tums, DayQuil and toothpaste.
The boy was ultimately removed from the home and placed in protective care.
Police Say Boy Was Also Confined and Restrained
The allegations went beyond food deprivation.
According to court documents, the boy told investigators that he had been locked inside a dog kennel on multiple occasions. Police also said he described being restrained with zip ties and, at other times, handcuffs and rope.
Investigators said the child was allegedly placed on a cold air vent while restrained and was subjected to other forms of punishment, including cold showers. Police also documented bruises and scratches on his body.
Authorities said another adult who lived in the home, Jonathan Jarman, was also involved in the case. Jarman previously pleaded guilty to reckless aggravated child abuse, a reduced charge, and is also scheduled to be sentenced Nov. 17.
Plea Deal Keeps Child From Having to Testify
Grand County Attorney Stephen Stocks told the court that protecting the child from having to relive the alleged abuse was one reason prosecutors agreed to the plea arrangements.
The agreements also prohibit Jeremiah and Jennifer Perkins from contacting the boy until he turns 18. According to the latest reporting, the child has been living with a foster family and is now doing well.
The Perkinses’ sentencing will determine whether they receive prison time or another punishment allowed under their plea agreements.
The case remains a serious example of how allegations of prolonged child abuse can involve both physical harm and severe neglect. The boy’s removal from the home in 2025 brought the immediate danger to an end, while the criminal case against the adults involved continues toward sentencing.
