A Virginia man has been sentenced to 30 years in prison for the fatal abuse and second-degree murder of his two-month-old daughter — a crime prosecutors say stemmed from a violent outburst while he was playing Xbox.
La’Shaun Quintae Holloway, 27, was sentenced Monday by Circuit Court Judge Afshin Farashahi, who exceeded state sentencing guidelines that capped at 23 years and 8 months. Holloway’s total sentence was 50 years with 20 suspended, leaving him to serve three decades behind bars.
The verdict followed Holloway’s August 26, 2024, conviction after a three-day jury trial. Commonwealth’s Attorney Colin D. Stolle announced the outcome, calling the case one of “unimaginable cruelty.”
A Brutal Crime
The fatal incident occurred on December 20, 2019, when Holloway was alone caring for his infant daughter. Prosecutors Tabitha B. Anderson and Megan M. Lang presented evidence that family members heard Holloway screaming profanities at the baby through his Xbox headset. Moments later, the child fell silent — and was found unresponsive.
She was rushed to the hospital and placed on life support but died days later from catastrophic injuries.
Devastating Injuries
Medical experts testified that the baby suffered abusive head trauma, including:
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26 rib fractures in various stages of healing
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A fractured clavicle and chest bruising
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A skull fracture and bruising around her eyes
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An extensive brain bleed
Judge Farashahi cited the severity of the injuries, the infant’s age, and the brutality of the assault in imposing a sentence above guideline recommendations.
Prior Convictions
Holloway’s criminal record also influenced the judge’s decision. His prior convictions include Child Abuse and Neglect, Felony Eluding Police, Hit and Run, DUI, Carrying a Concealed Weapon, and Petit Larceny, among others.
Holloway, formerly of the 1100 block of Woodcock Lane, will now serve his 30-year sentence in a Virginia state correctional facility.
“This was an act of senseless violence against the most defenseless of victims,” said Stolle. “The sentence reflects the profound gravity of his actions.”
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