A Muskegon County mother is now facing a formal manslaughter charge in the death of her 11-year-old daughter, a case that has left the Fruitport community shaken. Sherry Leak appeared in court Tuesday morning for arraignment, where prosecutors outlined the disturbing accusations against her.
According to authorities, Leak is accused of sitting on her daughter for a long enough period that the child stopped breathing. The incident took place Sunday evening inside a home in the Clover Estates Mobile Home Park in Fruitport.
During the court appearance, Muskegon County Prosecutor’s Chief Trial Attorney Matt Roberts stressed the gravity of the allegations. He told the court, “This is obviously, as the Court is aware of, a very serious matter and does involve the death of the young child in this case. Certainly, this does not appear to be a case where there’s any question about who is responsible.
At least the evidence at this point has led us to the conclusion that the defendant in this case, by her own admission, did sit on the child, and that appears to have been the cause of death here.” An autopsy for 11-year-old Mialah Leak is still pending, and investigators continue to gather information about what happened inside the home. Authorities say additional charges, including potential child abuse counts, may still be filed as the investigation progresses.
Child Protective Services has already filed a petition to terminate parental rights regarding Mialah’s twin sister. Prosecutors described the surviving child as “medically fragile.” She is currently hospitalized, and CPS is working to arrange a placement for her once she is discharged.
Manslaughter carries a possible 15-year prison sentence and a fine of up to $7,500. Leak has been assigned a court-appointed attorney. The judge set her bond at $100,000 cash surety and ordered that she have no contact with any minor children. Her next court hearing, a probable cause conference, is scheduled for early December.
The loss of young Mialah has deeply affected those who knew her. She was the adoptive daughter of Leak and a fifth-grade student at Shettler Elementary School in the Fruitport Community Schools district. Staff members described her as a child known for her warmth and gentle personality.
“She was a bright presence in our halls and classroom. She will be deeply missed by students, staff, and all who knew her,” Superintendent Jason Kennedy said in a message sent to families on Monday morning. As the legal process continues, the community remains heartbroken, hoping for answers and justice while mourning a young life lost far too soon.
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