BATON ROUGE, La. — In a tragic and disturbing case that has shaken the Baton Rouge community, Ellsworth Hull, 83, was sentenced on Monday to 10 years in prison for the death of his disabled adult son, 40-year-old Derrick Christophe.
According to court records and law enforcement reports, Hull fatally assaulted Christophe in 2020 using a wooden mop handle and a metal broomstick. Investigators described the abuse as severe and prolonged, with Christophe suffering both old and recent injuries, indicative of ongoing mistreatment.
Authorities were alerted after Hull reportedly contacted his attorney prior to police arriving at the residence. When law enforcement officers entered the home, they found Christophe lifeless in the bathtub, his body showing signs of extensive trauma. The combination of fresh and older wounds led investigators to conclude that Christophe had endured repeated abuse over time, making his death a heartbreaking culmination of prolonged mistreatment.
During the court proceedings, prosecutors emphasized the vulnerable status of Christophe as a disabled adult and highlighted the egregious nature of the abuse. Hull’s actions were described as deliberate and cruel, leaving a profound impact on the community and raising awareness about the need to protect those with special needs from domestic violence.
The sentencing brings some measure of accountability, though the tragedy has left family, friends, and advocates for individuals with disabilities grappling with grief and outrage. Derrick Christophe is remembered by those who knew him as a cherished member of his family, whose life was tragically cut short in a preventable act of violence.
Law enforcement officials and local advocacy groups stressed the importance of vigilance in protecting vulnerable adults and encouraged the community to report suspected abuse. While Hull will serve a decade behind bars, the case remains a stark reminder of the ongoing need for awareness, intervention, and support for individuals with disabilities.
The Baton Rouge community continues to mourn Derrick Christophe, honoring his memory while reflecting on the broader implications of domestic abuse and the protection of vulnerable populations.
Leave a Reply