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Man Gets 36 Years For Killing Toddler

by KREX News Room
by Courtney Griffin

Story Created: Feb 15, 2013 at 7:15 PM MDT

Story Updated: Feb 15, 2013 at 7:44 PM MDT

GRAND JUNCTION, Colo.- The man who killed a 19-month-old toddler was sentenced with the maximum penalty Friday afternoon.

Just Keel was sentenced to 36 years in prison after he pleaded guilty to child abuse resulting in the death of Owen Reak.

Authorities say Reak was found dead by his grandparents in Montrose in April.

An investigation revealed the injuries were sustained in Mesa County, and investigators later discovered that Justin Keel, who was the boyfriend of the toddler's mother, was watching Owen before he died.

The court room was filled with family members and friends of Reak and Keel.

Robert Reak, the uncle of the toddler, says anything less than life in prison or death isn't enough, but the family is pleased to see Keel get the maximum penalty.

Robert Reak says the whole process has brought the family closer together.

"He will be deeply missed.He was the most special, sweetest child there could ever be, he will be missed," said Robert Reak.

The judge said Keel will get 260 days pre-sentenced confinement time, and will have to pay restitution.

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Justice? said on Sunday, Feb 17 at 4:40 PM

wow they really went after Keel, but they said he prayed on the kid? and Keel should of told them that he hurt the child. WHERE THE ___ WAS THE MOTHER AND FATHER AND IF HE LOOKED SO BAD WAS HE NOT TAKEN BACK TO THE ER???????

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