Upstate NY man sentenced for killing 5-year-old daughter

The judge called it the worst child murder in county history

Apr. 4, 2026 at 1:23pm

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A former MMA champion in Upstate New York was sentenced to 27 years to life in prison after pleading guilty to the murder of his 5-year-old daughter. Authorities said the man locked his daughter in a bedroom without food, water, clothing or a bed, and both of his children were found to have cocaine in their systems.

Why it matters

This case highlights the tragic consequences of child abuse and neglect, as well as the devastating impact of substance abuse and mental health issues on vulnerable families. It also raises questions about the criminal justice system's ability to identify and intervene in high-risk situations to protect children.

The details

Robert Buskey, a former heavyweight champion in mixed martial arts, was sentenced on Friday for the murder of his 5-year-old daughter, Charlotte. Prosecutors said Buskey locked Charlotte in a bedroom without basic necessities, and both she and her 3-year-old brother, Jackson, were found to have cocaine in their systems. First responders discovered Jackson in a makeshift cage in the dining room and Charlotte's emaciated body in the bedroom. Buskey's girlfriend was previously sentenced to five years of probation for tampering with physical evidence.

  • In April 2024, first responders were called to the family home.
  • On Friday, Buskey was sentenced to 27 years to life in prison.

The players

Robert Buskey

A former heavyweight champion in mixed martial arts who pleaded guilty to the murder of his 5-year-old daughter.

Charlotte Buskey

The 5-year-old daughter of Robert Buskey who was found dead in the family home.

Jackson Buskey

The 3-year-old son of Robert Buskey who was found in a makeshift cage in the dining room.

Judge Matthew Sypniewski

The judge who sentenced Robert Buskey and described the case as the most horrific and agonizing child murder in the history of Schenectady County.

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What they’re saying

“This case highlights the tragic consequences of child abuse and neglect, as well as the devastating impact of substance abuse and mental health issues on vulnerable families.”

— Judge Matthew Sypniewski, Judge

What’s next

The judge granted a full order of protection for the surviving son, Jackson, that prevents any contact with Buskey for the next 35 years.

The takeaway

This case underscores the urgent need for better support systems and intervention strategies to protect children from abuse and neglect, especially in high-risk situations involving substance abuse and mental health issues. It also raises questions about the criminal justice system's ability to identify and address the root causes of such tragedies.