Shemeka Williams, 46, is facing charges for the alleged murder of her 18-year-old foster daughter, Mackenzi Felmlee, in May 2024. Williams, who had been a foster parent for 12 years, is accused of months of abuse before Felmlee’s tragic death.
The case has shocked the community, especially after chilling cellphone footage was shown in court, revealing Williams’ cruel behavior.
The Horrifying Cellphone Footage
During a bond hearing on Friday, St. Clair County Judge Sara Rice viewed disturbing footage from a cellphone. The video allegedly shows Felmlee, unresponsive and dying at the bottom of a staircase, while Williams taunts and smacks her.
As Felmlee struggles, Williams reportedly tells her, “She acts like she’s dead. She just needs sleep,” before pushing the teen’s legs back into a folded position.
The video allegedly continues with Williams physically handling Felmlee’s lifeless body, lifting her by the head and upper body. In the video, Williams is heard instructing her biological daughter to call Felmlee’s foster grandmother, Cornelia M. Reid, for help. Reid, 64, is also charged with murder in connection with Felmlee’s death.
Judge Rice called the footage “horrifying,” and Williams was ordered to remain detained, along with Reid.
Evidence of Ongoing Abuse
The prosecution presented additional disturbing evidence, including multiple videos showing what they claim were instances of physical and psychological abuse. In one video, Felmlee is allegedly forced to say phrases like “I am a doof, I hate myself” while facing a wall.
In another, Williams is seen striking Felmlee with a belt while saying, “Good job. Are you crying?” to which Felmlee allegedly replies, “No, ma’am.”
In a text from August 2023, Williams is said to have admitted to assaulting Felmlee, writing, “I was whooping her a—. She’s pretending to have bulimia.”
Another punishment in March 2024 allegedly involved Williams forcing Felmlee to put soiled underwear into a medical mask and wear it over her face, which prosecutors have photos to support.
Williams’ Defense and Plea
Williams’ defense attorney, Rob Bas, argued that while his client’s behavior may have been harsh, it was akin to the way coaches treat athletes. He maintains that Williams only tried to show “love” to Felmlee.
Williams has pleaded not guilty to first-degree murder, involuntary manslaughter, aggravated domestic battery, and other charges. She denies all accusations and claims innocence.
The Role of Cornelia Reid
Felmlee’s foster grandmother, Cornelia M. Reid, is also charged with murder. According to authorities, Reid was present in the home but did not intervene during the alleged abuse. The details of her involvement are still under investigation.
This case highlights the disturbing reality of foster care abuse and the tragic consequences of neglect and mistreatment. The cellphone footage shown in court paints a horrifying picture of the treatment Mackenzi Felmlee endured in the final days of her life.
The legal proceedings are ongoing, and both Williams and Reid face serious charges that could lead to significant prison sentences.
