Four years after the tragic death of her 13-month-old daughter, Hannah Nicole Driver, a Georgia mother has been sentenced to life in prison. Chloe Alexis Driver, now 24, learned her fate in a Cherokee County courtroom on Thursday, Dec. 12.
Judge Ellen McElyea, visibly shaken by the case, handed down the sentence: life in prison with the possibility of parole, along with an additional 20 years to be served at the same time. Under Georgia law, Chloe will have to serve at least 30 years before she can even be considered for parole.
Before announcing the sentence, Judge McElyea spoke about the weight of the case. “A parent killing their child is something that strikes at the very core of our humanity,” she said. “It’s a crime so shocking and unnatural that it’s nearly impossible to comprehend.” She added that the evidence was so disturbing that she sought resources to support the jurors who had to review it.
The sentencing comes a month after Chloe was convicted of multiple charges, including malice murder and cruelty to children. The jury also determined she was mentally ill but not legally insane at the time of the crime. During her sentencing, Chloe addressed her mental health, admitting her actions were tied to her struggles. “I know deep down I wasn’t in my right mind,” she said. “I would never have done this otherwise. I live with the guilt every day.”
The heartbreaking events unfolded on Dec. 8, 2020, when police responded to a home in Cherokee County. There, they found little Hannah critically injured with stab wounds. Despite efforts to save her, the toddler passed away at the hospital. Chloe was also found at the scene with severe injuries, including self-inflicted stab wounds, and was hospitalized.
Prosecutors painted a disturbing picture of that night, alleging that Chloe, who was living in a home with people believed to be involved in a polygamist cult, grabbed a kitchen knife and stabbed her daughter before turning the weapon on herself. Reports revealed that Hannah’s father, who was present at the time, tried desperately to save his daughter until first responders arrived.
In court, Chloe expressed deep regret. “I am so sorry for everything, especially for the life that was lost. I will carry this guilt for the rest of my days,” she said.
For anyone who suspects child abuse or knows a child in danger, help is available. You can contact the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-422-4453 or visit their website at childhelp.org The service is free, confidential, and available 24/7 in over 170 languages.
