WEST HAVEN, Utah — A woman accused in the tragic death of 12-year-old Gavin Peterson has pleaded guilty to multiple felony charges, including murder and child abuse, in a Weber County courtroom on Monday.
Nichole Lea Scott, 51, admitted guilt to a total of eight charges, which include murder, child abuse, obstruction of justice, and child endangerment, according to court records.
The investigation began on July 9, 2024, when deputies with the Weber County Sheriff’s Office responded to a 911 call at a home in West Haven. Upon arrival, they found an unconscious boy who was not breathing. Scott told authorities she had discovered the boy in his room, covered in vomit, and attempted to revive him by splashing water on his face.
The child, later identified as Gavin Peterson, was rushed to a nearby hospital but tragically passed away. Medical staff reported that the boy was severely malnourished, and an autopsy confirmed his death was due to starvation and organ failure. Officials noted Gavin appeared extremely emaciated upon his arrival at the hospital.
Subsequent investigations uncovered a disturbing pattern of abuse. Search warrants led authorities to discover messages between Scott, Gavin’s father Shane Peterson, and his brother Tyler Peterson. These messages reportedly revealed discussions about locking Gavin in a room, physically beating him, and depriving him of food and bathroom access—abuse that allegedly took place over several years.
Graphic images seized during the investigation supported these claims, showing Gavin with sores on his back and lying on a bare floor covered in feces, wearing only a diaper.
Gavin’s father, Shane Peterson, pleaded guilty in March 2025 to several charges tied to the abuse and death of his son. His brother Tyler Peterson has also been charged, though he was released under certain conditions following arguments by his defense citing mental health concerns.
Scott is expected to return to court for sentencing on May 12, 2025.
While Scott has entered a guilty plea, it’s important to remember that all individuals charged are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law .
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