A Lake Charles man was found guilty Tuesday morning in the death of an 8-month pregnant woman who was chocked, beaten and left in the freezing cold in 2019. Her unborn baby also died as a result of their injuries.

Vernell A. Chatman Jr., 35, was convicted of one count of manslaughter and one count second-degree feticide. Sentencing will be held July 22 before Judge Michael Canaday.

Chatman was initially arrested alongside his brother, Larry Jermaine “LT” Chatman, in November 2019. Vernell Chatman was originally charged with second-degree murder and first-degree feticide. His bond was set at $2.5 million. Larry Chatman was arrested for principal to second-degree murder and his bond was set at $900,000.

Lake Charles Police Lt. Jeff Keenum previously told the American Press that authorities responding to a welfare concern in the area of Cline and Homes streets at 6 a.m. Nov. 16, 2019, found the body of 27-year-old Kayla Jones. Keenum said an altercation had ensued between Jones and the brothers.