Tampa Woman Gets 40 Years for Son's Death

A Tampa woman received a 40-year prison sentence for the second-degree murder and aggravated child abuse of her 4-year-old son, Joseph.

Arayia L. Hudson, 38, pleaded guilty to the charges on August 19, accepting a plea deal that avoided a potential death sentence. The sentencing follows the death of Joseph, who Hudson found unconscious in their Sulphur Springs home on June 29, 2024. Authorities responded to a 911 call around 4:30 a.m. and found Hudson attempting to revive the child. Joseph was taken to an area hospital and pronounced dead later that day.

A medical examiner determined Joseph died from blunt force trauma to the head and torso. His autopsy revealed multiple injuries, including bruises on his forehead, discoloration around his eyes, and other marks on his torso and buttocks. The examination also noted swelling on the child's brain and severe internal injuries to his liver and stomach.

Court records state Joseph's two older half-brothers, aged 9 and 14, told detectives Hudson struck and kicked their younger sibling multiple times. One boy reported assisting his mother by holding Joseph's arms while she disciplined him with a shoe.

Hudson claimed Joseph hit his head against a bathroom wall during the discipline. She was initially charged with first-degree murder and aggravated child abuse.

As part of her plea agreement, Hudson must undergo a mental health evaluation and treatment, and complete an anger management course after her sentence. She is permanently prohibited from visiting or working in schools, childcare facilities, or any other location where children gather.

Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office booking records show Hudson was arrested on July 1, 2024.