Brazos County Trial Begins for Father Accused of Twin Daughters Abuse Resulting in a 6-Year-Old’s Death
Bryan, Texas – The trial for a father, accused of horrifically abusing his twin daughters leading to the death of one, six-year-old girl, started this week in Brazos County. The suspect, Justin Hopper, faces a jury for his alleged role in the abuse.
Father Faces Severe Charges
Justin Hopper is charged with two counts of injury to a child with intent to cause bodily injury. He is believed to have inflicted what later turned fatal physical harm to his twin daughters in his custody, leading to the heartbreaking loss of 6-year-old Arianna Battelle last year.
During the trial, court records revealed gruesome details of the abuse. Charges suggest that Hopper and his partner, Jessica Bundren, used belts and paddles as a form of punishment for the minor girls. Arianna’s lifeless body was found in the couple’s residence on October 27, 2020.
Stepmother Found Guilty Earlier
This trial follows the sentencing of Jessica Bundren, the stepmother to the twin victims. Convicted on similar charges in November 2023, Bundren is currently serving her lifetime sentence.
During Bundren’s trial, her defense tried to blame Hopper for the abuse. Despite their efforts, the court found Bundren guilty, and she remains in TDCJ custody. Her defense is preparing for her to testify at Hopper’s trial.
A Grieving Community Awaits Justice
The trial, taking place in a courtroom filled with tearful and angry members of the Bryan community, seeks to find justice for this tragic event. Many are hopeful that the trial will shed light on the circumstances that led to the controversial death of young Arianna and the alleged abuse suffered by her surviving twin sister.
Awaiting the development of the trial, the citizens of Bryan remain hopeful that justice will be served for the innocent victims that suffered horrendously under the care of those meant to protect and nurture them.
