Barber Charged with Murder After Torturing Six-Year-Old, DA Confirms

Tragic Case of Child Abuse and Murder in Orange County

In a heartbreaking incident that has shaken the community of Orange County, California, Ernest Lamar Love, a 41-year-old man, faces grave charges in the death of six-year-old Chance Crawford. Prosecutors have accused Love of torturing and murdering the young boy, leading to multiple felony charges that include murder, assault on a child resulting in great bodily injury, and torture. The horrific allegations have left both the local community and law enforcement grappling with the details of this tragic case.

Timeline of Events

The unsettling events began when Chance Crawford’s mother, who was working the night shift as a nurse’s assistant, entrusted her son to Love’s care at approximately 6:30 p.m. on a Thursday evening. Love, known for operating a barbershop, was supposed to watch over the boy during her shift. However, what unfolded instead was a series of brutal acts that would ultimately lead to Chance’s untimely death. Prosecutors have detailed that Love allegedly resorted to extreme violence after Chance had an accident at a park, resulting in him wetting his pants.

The Nature of the Charges

Ernest Lamar Love has been charged with multiple felonies that reflect the severity of his actions. Among the charges are murder and assault on a child with the potential to cause great bodily injury, both of which illustrate the heinous nature of the crime. Furthermore, an added sentencing enhancement has been filed because Love’s actions resulted in great bodily injury, rendering Chance comatose. This enhancement underscores the brutality of the alleged torture, as prosecutors assert that Love was responsible for inflicting life-threatening injuries upon the child.

Details of Abuse

Court records reveal chilling details of the alleged abuse suffered by Chance Crawford. Prosecutors claim that Love beat the boy with a piece of lumber and subjected him to additional torment by pouring hydrogen peroxide on his open wounds. Reports indicate that he forced Chance to perform strenuous exercises like push-ups in a cruel manner, further aggravating his injuries. Medical professionals at the Children’s Hospital of Orange County reported shocking findings, including significant flesh loss from Chance’s buttocks and severe brain swelling indicative of violent shaking.

A Community in Mourning

As news of Chance’s tragedy spreads, the community of Placentia has been left in a state of disbelief and sorrow. Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer lamented the heartbreaking loss, emphasizing the emptiness felt in Chance’s classroom as his classmates celebrated their first week of school while he fought for his life in the hospital. The struggle for the young boy’s survival highlights the extreme abuse he suffered, and the public outcry for justice is palpable.

The Call for Justice

The indictment of Ernest Lamar Love showcases the legal system’s commitment to addressing child abuse and domestic violence. As this case unfolds, it serves as a reminder of the need for vigilance and protection for vulnerable children in our communities. The prosecution aims to ensure that those responsible for such heinous acts are held accountable, not only as a means of justice for Chance Crawford but also to underline the importance of safeguarding children. The community stands united in seeking justice and healing as they grapple with the aftermath of this horrific event.

This tragic story serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of vigilant oversight and support systems for children, as well as the responsibility of society to ensure their safety and well-being.