A Massachusetts court has sentenced foster parents Matthew Tucker and Cassandra Barlow-Tucker to prison following the tragic death of their 10-month-old foster child, Kristoff Zenopolous — a case authorities described as “avoidable.”
A jury found both individuals guilty of involuntary manslaughter and reckless child endangerment after determining they failed to seek medical care despite clear signs the infant was seriously ill. Superior Court Judge Tracy Duncan sentenced the couple to three to five years in state prison, with their sentences staggered so one parent remains available for their biological children.
According to prosecutors, the infant had been suffering for weeks from worsening symptoms linked to a strep infection, bronchopneumonia, and empyema — all conditions considered treatable with timely medical intervention. Despite this, the couple did not seek professional care. Evidence presented during trial also indicated the child was left unattended for nearly 14 hours before being found unresponsive.
Assistant District Attorney Andrew Covington called the case “deeply tragic,” emphasizing that timely action could have saved the child’s life.
Defense attorneys argued the couple believed the symptoms were related to existing illnesses in the household and prior guidance to monitor the child at home. However, the jury concluded their inaction amounted to criminal negligence.
Beyond prison time, both individuals will face probation and are permanently barred from serving as foster caregivers.
