PORTLAND, Ore. — In a significant child homicide case, Multnomah County Circuit Judge Christopher Marshall imposed a 10-year prison sentence on Darian McWoods after he accepted a plea deal, concluding a lengthy investigation that began in December 2013.
McWoods was first indicted in December 2016, facing numerous charges connected to the tragic death of his 15-month-old daughter, Kamaya Flores. The charges included two counts of murder by abuse, three counts of manslaughter in the first degree, and others, notably criminally negligent homicide and tampering with a witness.
Kamaya died while in her father’s care on December 17, 2013. The Oregon State Medical Examiner’s Office conducted an autopsy that revealed her death resulted from methadone toxicity, with trace amounts of methamphetamine also found in her blood. Disturbing physical findings were documented, including broken ribs, liver lacerations, and facial bruising.
During a trial in 2018, expert witnesses testified that the injuries were consistent with severe child abuse and compression asphyxia. Consequently, on June 5, 2018, a jury unanimously convicted McWoods on all charges related to Kamaya’s injuries.
However, the case took a dramatic turn on July 13, 2022, when the Court of Appeals reversed McWoods’ convictions. The appellate court remanded the case back to Multnomah County Circuit Court for a retrial.
On May 28, 2025, McWoods entered a guilty plea, admitting to one count each of manslaughter in the first degree and criminal mistreatment in the first degree. He acknowledged, regarding the manslaughter charge, that he recklessly caused Kamaya’s death through neglect or maltreatment. For the charge of criminal mistreatment, McWoods accepted responsibility for having assumed care and custody of Kamaya, admitting he knowingly withheld necessary and adequate care and medical attention from her.
The prosecution team, led by Multnomah County Chief Deputy District Attorney Amanda Nadell and Senior Deputy District Attorney Charles Mickley, emphasized the importance of delivering justice for Kamaya’s family. Following the sentencing, Nadell expressed gratitude for McWoods’ accountability and hope that the resolution provides closure to the victim’s family.
“In her short life, Kamaya brought so much light and love to her family,” Nadell stated. “Since her death, her family has remained steadfast in their commitment to ensuring justice was brought for Kamaya. I hope that the finality of this resolution will provide closure to the victim’s family.”
The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office also recognized investigator Nathan Tobey, who was involved in the case from the outset. Previously a Portland Police detective as part of the Child Abuse Team, he continued his work on this important case even after it was remanded.
This case serves as a poignant reminder of the tragic impact of child abuse and the ongoing commitment of law enforcement and prosecutors to seek justice for vulnerable victims.
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