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Polk County, Texas News

Man Receives Life Sentence for Kidnapping and Murder of 11-Year-Old Girl in Polk County

Don Steven McDougal and victim: Audrii Cunningham

Don Steven McDougal, 49, has pleaded guilty to the kidnapping and murder of 11-year-old Audrii Cunningham, resulting in a life sentence without the possibility of parole. The agreement comes after McDougal’s involvement in the tragic disappearance and death of Cunningham, whose body was discovered in the Trinity River on February 20, 2024.

Cunningham, a young girl from Polk County, was reported missing on February 15, 2024, after she failed to show up for her school bus. An Amber alert was issued shortly after her disappearance, and an intense search was launched by the Polk County Sheriff's Office, along with local and federal agencies. Cunningham’s body was found days later, near Lake Livingston, with an autopsy confirming she died from blunt head trauma.

McDougal, a friend of Cunningham’s father who had been living in a trailer on their property, was known to transport Audrii to the bus stop before her disappearance. Investigators determined that McDougal had abducted Cunningham and later killed her, leaving her body near the Trinity River.

The resolution of this case, while not involving a death penalty sentence due to McDougal’s significant Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, ensures he will spend the remainder of his life in prison without the possibility of parole. Texas law prohibits the death penalty for individuals with documented intellectual disabilities, which influenced the plea agreement. The agreement also spares Cunningham's family the emotional burden of a prolonged trial and appeals process.

The case was investigated by the Polk County Sheriff's Office, in close coordination with the FBI and the Texas Department of Public Safety. The collaboration of these agencies, along with the District Attorney’s Office, resulted in a swift and decisive outcome. District Attorney Shelly Sitton praised the efforts of all involved, stating that the resolution ensures McDougal will never again harm another child.

“This case has been incredibly difficult for all involved, but this sentence brings a measure of justice for Audrii and her family. While the law limits certain outcomes, we are confident that McDougal will never be able to hurt anyone again,” said Sitton. “Our office will continue to fight for justice for every victim, no matter the circumstances.”

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