Devon Mae Witryk, 28, of Columbus, Ohio, pleaded guilty on July 24 to felony child neglect that occurred on Eglin Air Force Base in Florida. The announcement was made by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
Heekin said, “I am proud of this successful prosecution in this heartbreaking case of severe child neglect, and deeply appreciate the excellent work of the Eglin AFB Security Forces Investigations to identify and put a stop to this abusive situation.”
According to court documents, a welfare investigation began in June 2023 for a child living on Eglin Air Force Base. Witryk was identified as the child’s mother and a military spouse. Authorities determined that the child had not received appropriate care or supervision. After inspecting Witryk’s home, investigators rescued the child. Witryk no longer has custody of or contact with the child.
Witryk faces up to five years’ imprisonment. Sentencing is scheduled for September 17 at 9:00 a.m., at the United States Courthouse in Pensacola before United States District Judge M. Casey Rodgers.
The case involved an investigation by Eglin Air Force Base Security Forces Investigations and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Meredith L. Steer.
The U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Florida enforces federal laws, defends national security, protects civil rights and secures public funds across 23 counties including Tallahassee and Pensacola; it operates from courthouses in Tallahassee, Pensacola and Gainesville; collaborates with law enforcement agencies through initiatives such as Project Safe Childhood; and advances community safety by upholding the rule of law, according to the official website.