A Winfield woman who pleaded guilty to first-degree domestic violence and aggravated child abuse of a child under the age of six will serve two life sentences, according to the District Attorney’s (DA) Office for Fayette, Lamar, and Pickens counties.
The investigation began in December 2024, when Kahleb’s mother Wendy Bailey, father Steven Collins, and 2-year-old sister Ryleigh Collins were all involved in a crash. Bailey and Steven Collins allegedly were not wearing seatbelts, and Ryleigh Collins was not in a car seat.
Steven Collins was ejected and died; Ryleigh Collins died from her injuries, and Bailey was in critical condition.
The Fayette County Sheriff’s Office discovered the following day that the couple had a son, Kahleb Collins, who had been missing for several months. Investigators eventually discovered notes, images, and other evidence proving Steven Collins committed significant abuse.
Authorities thought Kahleb Collins died between September and December 2024, based on the available evidence and timing.
According to the DA’s office, the investigation included the inspection of various electronic devices, many searches of the family’s land, and the collecting and study of debris from burn piles on the family’s property.
Digital forensic investigators, federal forensic specialists, and forensic anthropologists assisted in the examination of evidence recovered throughout the inquiry.
“This was a really troubling case for our community.” People were horrified by what happened to Kahleb, and many have followed this case closely since the beginning,” said District Attorney Andy Hamlin. ” Based on the evidence and timeline established, Steven Collins committed the unthinkable acts against this child, which we believe ultimately led to his death. “Wendy Bailey was aware of the abuse and did nothing to prevent or report it.”
“No sentence can undo what was done to this child. What we can do is hold this defendant accountable for her role and seek the strongest punishment allowed by law.”
Fayette, Lamar and Pickens counties District Attorney Andy Hamlin
Her sentencing was made public on Friday, July 10.
Bailey, 24, pleaded guilty in Fayette County Circuit Court and was sentenced to life in prison on all charges. The maximum sentence for each violation is life in prison. The sentences will be served in sequential order.
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