Tokio woman sentenced to Life in Prison for murder, abuse, and neglect of foster children

Tammie Longie, Courtesy:
Tammie Longie, Courtesy:

(Tokio, ND) -- A second parent has been sentenced to life in prison following the 2020 discovery of a deceased 5-year-old child in their home.

Tokio resident Tammie Longie was sentenced to Life in Prison following her pleading guilty to Second Degree Murder, three counts of Child Abuse, and Child Neglect, all within Indian Country.

Longie's home was searched in May of 2020. Officers found a bruised and deceased 5-year-old child in the basement. A second child was removed from the home immediately following the search. 

“This is a tragic and horrifying case,” said United States Attorney Jennifer Klemetsrud Puhl. “The children endured prolonged physical and emotional abuse by Longie, who was responsible for caring and protecting them. In particular, Longie’s physical and psychological abuse of five-year-old R.T. and seven-year-old Z.T. represents some of the worst of humanity; for Longie ultimately killed R.T. and severely injured Z.T. Today’s sentence ensures that she will be removed from her community forever.”

Tammie's co-defendent, Erich Longie Jr., plead guilty to First-Degree murder, three counts of Child Abuse, and Child Neglect. He was sentenced to Life in Prison in June.