NEW ALBANY -- In exchange for pleading guilty to third degree murder, Jeremiah Cordell of Forksville agreed to spend 20 to 40 years in prison. But some people who know him, and who are familiar with his case feel that's not nearly enough.
Jeremiah Cordell of Forksville is the man in the front of the line. Back in April, he walked into the Bradford County Courthouse for a hearing. Now he has pleaded guilty to third degree murder for killing a toddler in his care. He admits causing the death of 18-month-old Kendall Doss of New Albany. The little girl was found dead in her bed in September of 2015. Authorities say the child had severe head injuries.
"He definitely did not let anyone know the child suffered a head injury. He did not do anything that would have allowed the child to get any sort of a treatment," District Attorney Dan Barrett said.
Newswatch 16 spoke with some people who live in New Albany. Not everyone wanted to go on camera, but everyone we talked to knew someone involved in the case.
"This child is no longer with us and the families and friends have to deal with that on a daily basis," Heather Williamson said.
"I love kids and what he did to her was wrong," Gladys Bailey said.
Jeremiah Cordell was supposed to go to trial next month for second-degree murder and child sex charges. Instead, he pleaded guilty to third degree murder and agreed to the maximum sentence of 20 to 40 years in prison.
Some people here in New Albany who are familiar with the case tell Newswatch 16 they are happy Cordell pleaded guilty but they don't think his punishment is severe enough.
"I think that he definitely did what he did and he deserves the death penalty but I don't make that decision," Williamson said.
"I think he should die just like the baby did. I think they should give him the electrical mode so he can die," Bailey said.
Again as part of Cordell's plea agreement, he agreed to spend 20 to 40 years behind bars. He is scheduled to be formally sentenced next month.