Three guilty in Md. cult trial, starvation of toddler

By BEN NUCKOLS, Associated Press Writer Ben Nuckols, Associated Press Writer – Tue Mar 2, 6:25 pm ET

BALTIMORE – The leader of a household described as a religious cult was convicted of second-degree murder Tuesday along with two of her followers for starving a 1-year-old boy to death because he did not say “Amen” during a mealtime prayer.

Jurors also convicted Queen Antoinette, her daughter Trevia Williams and Marcus A. Cobbs of child abuse resulting in death. Cobbs was also found guilty of accessory after the fact for helping to cover up the death of Javon Thompson.

They showed no emotion as the verdict was read, a contrast to their laughter and astonishment during prosecutors’ closing arguments. The trial lasted six days, and jurors deliberated for about three hours. FULL STORY