Tuesday, December 11, 2007

Convicted "John" Charged with Child Abuse and Murder

9/4/07 -- OKC, OK - A man previously featured on JohnTV.com for soliciting an undercover officer for prostitution has been charged with child abuse and murder.

Kerry Joe Smith, 21, (see photo above left) was charged August 30 with five felonies related to sexual abuse of two children and the murder of one.

In an article published August 31 in the Oklahoman, Smith has allegedly confessed to the abuse and molestation of his pregnant girlfriend's two children - 23-months and 9-months old.

The abuse came to light when Smith took the lifeless body 23-month old Olivia Scroggins to the St. Anthony hospital emergency room.

Smith fled when he saw a police officer in the area.

Smith and Olivia's mother, Wendy Scroggins, 22, were later arrested at their apartment in the 3300 block of North McKinley in Oklahoma City.

Scroggins is facing felony charges for knowingly allowing the abuse of her two children.

Published reports indicate Olivia died as a result of a physical beating and showed signs of sexual abuse.

Smith was most recently convicted of burglary and making a false declaration of ownership to a pawn shop in February.

Smith appeared on JohnTV.com after he was arrested and subsequently pled guilty to solicitation of prostitution in 2005.

In that case, Smith reportedly approached two police confidential informants near SE 48th and S. Shields Blvd. and offered them each $60 for sexual intercourse. Smith was wanted on outstanding arrest warrants when he was caught in the police sting.

In June of 2005, Smith pled guilty to the prostitution offense and was sentenced to 1-year suspended, no fine and 80-hours of community service.

In 2004, Smith pled guilty to violating a Victim's Protective Order and malicious injury and destruction.

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