ALBANY — An Albany man was sentenced to 40 years in prison for his part in starving and beating his 5-year-old son to death in 2023, according to The Advocate.

Joseph Eslinger's son Leo was found unresponsive at home on Dec. 28, 2023. He was airlifted to a New Orleans hospital, where he died three days later.

Prosecutors said Joseph Eslinger and his then-girlfriend, Diana Lopez, beat the child with their fists and charging cords, according to the newspaper. Leo reportedly suffered brain bleeds, a puncture wound, widespread bruising and other marks.

Eslinger was awarded custody of Leo and his two siblings in 2023 after Leo's mother went to jail in Indiana and his parents divorced. 

The father was first indicted on a first-degree murder charge, the report says, which could have led to a life sentence. He received the 40-year sentence after reportedly pleading no contest to manslaughter. 

According to The Advocate's report, Eslinger apologized and said he hoped his family could forgive him. Lopez is reportedly set to appear back in court in November.