Texas Dad Gets 50 Years After Adopted Son Was Found Dead

On July 28, 2022, 7-year-old Troy Koehler was reported missing from his family home in Spring, Texas.

Just a few hours later, police made a heartbreaking discovery: Troy’s body was found inside a top-loading washing machine in the garage. Despite his father filing a missing person report early that morning, the child had already been dead for hours.

Sentenced to 50 Years

Now, over two years later, Troy’s adoptive father, Jemaine Thomas, has been sentenced to 50 years in prison after pleading guilty to capital murder.

He won’t be eligible for parole. His sentencing was handed down on July 30, 2025, closing a case that has shaken the community and drawn national outrage.

Shocking Signs of Abuse

An autopsy revealed Troy had suffered blunt force trauma to the face, signs of asphyxiation, and other internal injuries.

The medical examiner also noted both recent and healing bruises—evidence pointing to long-term physical abuse. His death was ruled a homicide.

Chilling Messages and Neglect

The prosecution introduced disturbing text messages in court. In one, Thomas became enraged over missing snack foods, threatening, “I’m going to end up kill[ing] him.”

Other messages revealed a pattern of cruelty over minor misbehavior, including threats of confinement and harm.

A Life Cut Short

Troy’s former first-grade teacher described him as a kind-hearted, book-loving child who made his classmates laugh and feel seen.

She said his light “inspired others” and that his loss has left a lasting scar on everyone who knew him.

The Mother’s Fate

Tiffany Thomas, Troy’s adoptive mother, also pleaded guilty—but to a lesser charge of injury to a child.

Her sentencing is scheduled for September 10. Officials also revealed that Child Protective Services had previously been involved with the family, raising even more questions about missed warning signs.

Why It Matters

This case has reignited conversations around the responsibilities of adoptive parents and the importance of following up on abuse reports.

Troy’s story isn’t just about tragedy—it’s about a system that failed a child and the overdue consequences faced by those who hurt him.

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