Clemson Student Charged With Homicide by Child Abuse

CLEMSON, SC (WSPA/WLTX) - The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division arrested a Clemson University student Friday, saying he was to blame for the death of a child.


Richard Brandon Lewis

Officials said 25-year-old Richard Brandon Lewis of Clinton is charged with homicide by child abuse and homicide by child abuse, aiding, and abetting.

Audrina Hepburn died several days after she was admitted to a hospital for brain injuries.

SLED officials said Lewis caused the death of a 16-month-old girl by committing child abuse or neglect on or about October 12-13, 2009 at a Cross Hill home in Laurens County.

Lewis is further accused of aiding and abetting another person to commit child abuse or neglect on or about August 1- October 13, 2009 at a Cross Hill home in Laurens County.

Lewis was arrested Friday morning by SLED Agents and Clemson University Police on the campus of Clemson University.

SLED is investigating this case at the request of the Laurens County Sheriff's Office.

Last year, the Laurens County Sheriff's Office arrested the child's mother in connection with this case.

The girl's mother, Ashley Nicole Hepburn, is charged with murder.

It was not immediately clear if Lewis had an attorney.

Jail officials said he would have a bond hearing Saturday morning.

Clemson officials said that Lewis is a junior majoring in turf grass management.