Overview

• Jermaine Thomas pleaded guilty and received a 50-year prison term on July 30 for killing his 7-year-old son, Troy Koehler.
• An autopsy by the Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences ruled Troy’s death a homicide after finding evidence of asphyxiation, blunt-force trauma and prior injuries.
• Texas Child Protective Services had a documented history with the family before Troy’s death, spurring calls for tighter oversight of at-risk homes.
• In court, Troy’s first-grade teacher described him as an enthusiastic reader and said his potential was stolen by those entrusted to care for him.
• Supporters are launching a foundation in Troy’s name to promote child-abuse prevention and honor his memory.