Tragic Case of Child Neglect in Upstate New York

A young girl suffered severe neglect in her family’s filthy home in upstate New York, ultimately leading to her tragic death. Joycelyn Ann Dylewski, just three years old, was found with lice infesting her scalp and face, and her teeth were in horrific condition, prompting an outraged judge to condemn her parents.

On February 19, 2025, Joycelyn passed away following an investigation that revealed the dire living conditions created by her parents, Matthew Dylewski, 34, and Samantha Dylewski, 33. Reports indicated that her teeth were severely decayed, and even a cockroach reportedly fell out of a hat when it was taken off.

The couple recently received sentences of up to four years in prison. During the sentencing, Saratoga County Judge James Davis expressed his disappointment, stating, “You have failed as a parent.” Matthew was sentenced to 18 months to four years behind bars.

“Your job was to protect her,” the judge added, emphasizing their responsibility toward their child.

Sheriff Jeffrey Brown shared that Joycelyn had been diagnosed with anemia and suffered significant heart and organ damage resulting from the neglect. This combination of issues contributed to her untimely death.

“She was three years old, and you failed in the most horrible way,” Davis said. He remarked that the situation was preventable and urged them to reflect on their actions.

The family’s home was filled with trash and clutter to the extent that it was declared uninhabitable. Earlier this year, the parents pleaded guilty to criminally negligent homicide.

After hearing the verdict, Matthew reportedly broke down, expressing deep regret. “I really wish this had never happened,” he said, adding that he wished he had died instead of his daughter, a sentiment he thinks about constantly.

Samantha Dylewski received her sentence on June 8 from the same judge, who reiterated the suffering endured by their daughter and how their neglect affected her other children. The couple is now barred from contacting their four surviving children until 2038.

“As their mother, it was my duty to protect them from harm, and I failed,” Samantha expressed during the sentencing. The weight of this case reveals a heartbreaking failure of parental responsibility.