Tragic Loss: Former NFL Player Sentenced to Prison in Death of Girlfriend’s Child

A Devastating Crime

In a heart-wrenching case that has sent shockwaves through the community, Cierre Wood, a former NFL and Canadian Football League running back, has been sentenced to life in prison with the possibility of parole after 10 years for the second-degree murder of his girlfriend’s 5-year-old daughter, La’Rayah Davis. The tragic incident occurred in April 2019 at Wood’s Las Vegas apartment.

Along with the murder charge, Wood was also found guilty of felony child abuse and sentenced to serve between 28 months and six years consecutively. Prosecutors agreed to dismiss remaining felony counts of child abuse as part of a plea agreement entered into by Wood, known as an Alford plea.

A Formal Admission

An Alford plea allows a defendant to maintain their innocence while formally admitting guilt, thereby avoiding trial but acknowledging that a conviction would be likely based on the prosecution’s evidence. The plea agreement brought some form of closure to the case, sparing the family from the trauma of a lengthy and emotional trial.

The Victim’s Mother’s Involvement

Amy Taylor, the child’s mother, also pleaded guilty earlier this year to second-degree murder and felony child abuse as part of her own plea agreement with prosecutors. Further details about her sentencing were not disclosed in the available information.

The Child’s Tragic Death

According to the Las Vegas coroner’s office, La’Rayah Davis suffered fatal blunt force injuries, resulting in her untimely death on April 9, 2019. The specifics of the child’s injuries and the exact circumstances surrounding her death remain unclear.

Wood’s Athletic Career

Prior to his tragic involvement in this case, Wood had achieved some success on the football field. He played college football for the prestigious University of Notre Dame before being drafted into the NFL. Wood had brief stints with the Buffalo Bills, Houston Texans, and Cleveland Browns. He also played for the Montreal Alouettes in the Canadian Football League.

A Legacy Marred

Wood’s promising athletic career has been irrevocably shattered by his criminal actions. The life sentence he now faces represents a profound loss, not only for the victim’s family but for himself and those who knew him. This tragic case serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences that can result from domestic violence and child abuse.

Conclusion

The sentencing of Cierre Wood marks a sobering end to a tragic chapter in Las Vegas history. The victim’s innocent life was cut short, leaving an immeasurable void for her loved ones. While no amount of punishment can truly compensate for such a profound loss, the sentences imposed on Wood and Taylor reflect the seriousness of their crimes and the need to hold individuals accountable for their actions.

This case underscores the importance of recognizing and addressing the warning signs of domestic violence and child abuse. If you or someone you know needs help, there are resources available to provide support and guidance. Let us all work together to prevent such tragedies from happening in the future.