Jessica and Damien O'Brien, parents charged in the death of their 7-year-old son, Casper, who weighed 255 pounds at the time of his death, will undergo evaluations to determine their competency to stand trial. A judge ordered the evaluations for competency and criminal responsibility on Thursday.
Casper O'Brien's death was attributed to dilated cardiomyopathy, with morbid obesity as a contributing factor, according to a criminal complaint. The parents were arrested following a monthslong investigation and are being held without bond.
During a probable cause hearing in Genesee County, Chief Judge Mark McCabe denied defense motions for reasonable bond. Attorneys for both parents argued they are not a danger to the community and are grieving their son's loss. The father's attorney, Elias Fanous, stated that they are still reviewing discovery, which includes over 400 pages of medical records, and questioned the murder and torture charges.
Charges and Allegations
The parents are charged with second-degree murder and torture, both carrying a potential life sentence, along with multiple counts of child abuse. Prosecutors allege they subjected their son, who was immobile, to "cruel or extreme physical or mental pain and suffering" through "wanton and willful disregard," which led to his death. They are also accused of failing to seek medical attention for him, despite having healthcare, and neglecting to provide proper nutrition or a safe and clean home environment.
A police officer responded to the family's Flint Township home on November 4, 2025, after Jessica O'Brien called 911 to report her son was not breathing. The responding officer observed "extreme hoarding and deplorable living conditions," including a lack of a working toilet and filth in the living space.
Casper was taken to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Genesee County Prosecutor David Leyton stated that the parents' neglect led to their child suffering severe bed sores, rashes, and health disorders, including extreme morbid obesity, ultimately contributing to his early death. Casper had only seen a doctor once and was not attending school.
The O'Brien's 5-year-old daughter, who is also described as morbidly overweight in the complaint, has been placed in foster care. The next court date for Jessica and Damien O'Brien is scheduled for September 9.