OREGON CITY, Ore. (AP) — An Oregon City couple who believe in faith healing have been sentenced to 16 months each in prison on charges of criminally negligent homicide in the death of their son.
Judge Steven Maurer handed down the sentences Monday. He said he hoped the sentences would serve as an example and lead other members of the couple’s small church in Oregon City to seek medical attention if their children need it.
Last month, a jury found Jeff and Marci Beagley guilty of failing to seek medical help for their 16-year-old son, who died in June 2008 of a urinary tract blockage.
The Beagleys are members of the Followers of Christ, whose members shun most medical care in favor of prayer, anointing with oil and the laying on of hands.
