Indiana Father Pleads Guilty to Murdering 6-Year-Old Son
A father in Indiana has pleaded guilty to murdering his 6-year-old son, Justin Elmore.
Franklin Elmore Jr., 29, entered the guilty plea earlier this month and is scheduled to be sentenced on November 25, according to WNDU.
Franklin and his wife, 27-year-old Cheyenne Elmore — Justin’s stepmother — were both charged in August following the boy’s hospitalization on August 3 with traumatic injuries. Franklin initially claimed the injuries were self-inflicted due to behavioral issues, but medical examinations revealed a brain bleed, a punctured lung, and extensive bruising and abrasions, inconsistent with self-inflicted harm.
Investigators later reviewed surveillance footage from the boy’s playroom, showing Franklin attacking Justin while Cheyenne Elmore, present in the room, called 911 but did not intervene. Court records also indicated that Franklin was pacing in the backyard during the attack.
During his plea hearing, Franklin Elmore admitted to “knowingly” killing his son but stated he “did not mean it.”
Cheyenne Elmore has requested a delay in her trial to allow more time to review mental health records. Her trial has been rescheduled for February 2, 2026, with her next court appearance set for December 18.
This case highlights the tragic consequences of child abuse and the complex legal processes that follow. Authorities continue to seek accountability, while the community mourns the loss of a young life.