A Missouri woman has pleaded guilty to murder and assault charges in connection with the 2020 death of a four-year-old girl who was subjected to severe abuse.
Kourtney Taylor Aumen, 27, pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and first-degree assault on Monday, according to court records and prosecutors. She had previously faced more serious charges in connection with the death of Jessica Joy Mast.
The case dates back to December 2020, when authorities responded to a residence in Benton County following a report of a possible disturbance. Investigators found Jessica dead inside the home.
According to investigators, the child had suffered physical abuse before her death. Authorities alleged that Aumen and another man, Ethan Mast, were involved in the abuse of Jessica and another child.
Investigators also said Jessica was taken to a nearby pond during the incident and repeatedly placed in the cold water. The temperature was reportedly around 40 degrees Fahrenheit at the time.
Authorities said the child's parents were present during parts of the incident and were allegedly threatened when they attempted to intervene. Investigators later described the circumstances surrounding the case as involving what officials characterized as a religious-type episode.
Several people have faced charges connected to Jessica's death. Ethan Mast previously pleaded guilty to murder, while Jessica's mother, Mary Mast, pleaded guilty to child endangerment.
Aumen had been scheduled to stand trial later this month, but she changed her plea and admitted guilt instead.
She is scheduled to be sentenced on December 21, 2026.
The case remains subject to the court's sentencing process.