Former Notre Dame running back Cierre Wood has been sentenced to life in prison for the murder of his girlfriend’s five-year-old daughter, with the possibility of parole after 10 years. Wood had previously admitted to second-degree murder and felony child abuse in April. Alongside his life sentence, he must serve an additional 28 months to six years for the child abuse charge, with both sentences to be served consecutively.
The child, La’Rayah Davis, suffered fatal injuries including broken ribs, internal bleeding, and a lacerated liver. Wood was reported to have forced Davis to exercise as punishment, believing she was overweight.
Wood, who played for Notre Dame from 2009 to 2012, had a brief NFL career with the Houston Texans, Buffalo Bills, and New England Patriots, totaling just seven games. His professional football career ended after stints in the CFL with the Montreal Alouettes. Wood’s crime now overshadows his athletic achievements, leading to his life sentence.
