An Independence woman has been sentenced to 13 years in prison after pleading guilty in the neglect-related death of her 6-month old daughter.

The Kansas City Star reports that Deshelle Atkison pleaded guilty to two felony charges of child endangerment and abuse or neglect resulting in death.

She admitted to failing to seek medical care and provide adequate nourishment for her daughter, Betsy Atkinson. Betsy died at the family's home in January 2014.

The Jackson County Medical Examiner's Officer says Betsy died of pneumonia "due to sequel of severe acute malnutrition and neglect."

Atkison says she did not take Betsy for medical treatment because she feared being accused for wrongdoing and that the child's father would try to take her away.

BlakeDavidTaylo, ThinkStock
BlakeDavidTaylo, ThinkStock
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