Annapolis, MD – This morning in Anne Arundel County Circuit Court, Brooke Houck, 29, of Curtis Bay, pleaded guilty to child abuse resulting in death and involuntary manslaughter in the 2024 death of her toddler son, Landon, who overdosed on fentanyl he ingested in the family home.
In addition, Houck entered guilty pleas to neglect of a minor, first- and second-degree child abuse, and reckless endangerment. Sentencing is scheduled for November 20, 2026.
"As parents, it is our duty to shield and protect our children, who rely on our care to keep them safe," said State's Attorney Anne Colt Leitess. "Not only was Landon living in deplorable conditions, but his mother put her addiction ahead of his well-being by actively purchasing, using, and leaving drugs within his reach. Her selfish actions highlight how addiction not only affects users but also those most vulnerable around them."
On the evening of July 21, 2024, Anne Arundel County police were called to the 8100 block of Holly Road in Curtis Bay for a child in distress and unresponsive. On arrival, officers met with Houck and her husband, Nathan Houck. The couple directed police to their 23-month-old son, Landon, who was not breathing. Paramedics transported Landon to the hospital, where he was pronounced deceased. The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner later concluded the child died from an overdose of fentanyl.
Brooke Houck told officers the family sat on a couch watching a movie for about two hours. As the movie ended, they discovered Landon face down and not breathing. She said she had recently relapsed and her son may have found an empty drug capsule.
Although the defendant admitted she brought the drugs into the home, Nathan Houck was also responsible for Landon and his three siblings, who also resided in the residence. In October 2025, Nathan Houck pleaded guilty to child neglect. He was sentenced to five years, with all but 18 months suspended, and ordered to complete a drug treatment program.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant State's Attorney Shane Nolan and Assistant State's Attorney Anastasia Prigge on behalf of the citizens of Anne Arundel County, with the Honorable Stacy McCormack presiding.