ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — A Buncombe County woman who helped convict her child’s father of murder was sentenced Thursday after taking a plea deal in the baby’s death.
Diandra Haleigh Fuhr-Farlow, 32, told the court she regretted her inaction in the months leading up to the death of her 12-week-old daughter, Riley.
“I accept my responsibility, and I regret my inactions,” she said through tears, her voice breaking as she spoke to Judge Alan Thornburg. “I was fortunate to be able to have the chance to tell her story because she wouldn’t be able to.”
Riley’s father, Nickolas Shane Stephenson, 37, was convicted two weeks ago of second-degree murder and felony child abuse. Prosecutors said Fuhr-Farlow’s testimony was critical in securing that conviction.
Fuhr-Farlow pleaded guilty in March 2024 to felony child abuse as part of an agreement to testify against Stephenson. Prosecutors noted she had no prior criminal record, provided video documentation of her child’s life and was the only parent who appeared to show consistent care for Riley.
“This is a difficult case,” Assistant District Attorney Stormy Ellis said. “Everyone probably wants her to get the maximum sentence. I can only leave it to the judge.”
Defense attorney Jack Stewart urged the court to consider Fuhr-Farlow’s cooperation, testimony and personal history. He said his client had endured a violent relationship with Stephenson, suffered serious mental health struggles and continues to receive therapy while in custody.
“She suffered the loss of her daughter. She’ll be carrying that with her for the rest of her life,” Stewart told the court. “She was a new mother, she was inexperienced, and she showed bad judgment. But she also came forward, accepted responsibility and helped the state get a conviction.”
Thornburg sentenced Fuhr-Farlow to a term of 125 to 162 months in prison (10.4-13.5 years). She received credit for more than 1,100 days already served. The court also recommended she receive mental health treatment, educational opportunities and work placement at the discretion of the superintendent.
Fuhr-Farlow, dressed in brown jail clothing and shackled at the wrists, cried as she whispered with her attorney before the sentencing. She waved to family members in the courtroom, who prosecutors said plan to continue supporting her through her sentence.
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“The cooperation provided by Fuhr-Farlow was essential in securing a conviction against Stephenson, ensuring that both individuals responsible for the cruelty inflicted on this child face justice,” District Attorney Todd Williams said in a statement.
