Augusta, GA – August 7, 2025 — A devastating case of neglect has led to felony child cruelty charges against an Augusta mother, after her 1-year-old son, Trae’son Kevin Dunn, tragically died from a methadone overdose earlier this summer.
According to investigators with the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office, Genysis Mortley Lowery, the mother of the child, is being held responsible after her toddler ingested methadone that had been left unsecured and within reach in the family’s home.
The incident occurred in June 2025, when officers responded to an emergency call regarding an unresponsive child. Upon arrival, emergency personnel discovered young Trae’son suffering from symptoms consistent with a drug overdose. Despite lifesaving efforts, the child was later pronounced dead.
A full investigation was launched, led by local law enforcement and the Department of Family and Children Services (DFCS). Authorities determined that methadone, a prescription medication often used in the treatment of opioid addiction, had been left unattended and easily accessible in a rear bedroom where the children were playing. According to the official report, the methadone was placed on a table and later spilled. It is believed that the toddler ingested the liquid substance during that time.
Lowery’s second child, whose age has not been released, was also present in the room but did not ingest the substance, officials say.
Following toxicology results and a review of the circumstances, Genysis Mortley Lowery was arrested and charged with felony cruelty to children in the second degree. Authorities allege that her reckless storage of a dangerous substance directly contributed to her son’s death.
“This was a preventable tragedy,” a spokesperson for the sheriff’s office said. “Leaving methadone unsecured in an area accessible to children shows a blatant disregard for safety.”
The case has sparked renewed concerns over child endangerment and the importance of securing all medications, especially those as potent and potentially lethal as methadone.
DFCS has removed the surviving child from the home pending further investigation, and counseling services have been made available to family members affected by the loss.
Funeral arrangements for Trae’son Kevin Dunn, remembered as a joyful and loving little boy, were held privately by the family in June.
The investigation remains ongoing, and additional charges could be filed depending on the outcome of the case.
Anyone with further information is asked to contact the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office.
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