AIKEN, S.C. (WRDW/WAGT) – A choked-up Aiken County Sheriff Marty Sawyer says some of Javeayah Harris’ remains have been recovered after her body was dissolved by chemicals and “poured” into a lake.

He offered this latest update on the death of the 4-year-old during a news conference Thursday morning.

Authorities allege the girl died after a head injury that was caused by abuse by her mother. The girl wasn’t taken to a doctor for treatment of the injury.

The parents, Michilae Herring and Johmarea Harris, had already been arrested and charged with homicide by child abuse before Thursday. Both were denied bond on those offenses, and now face additional charges.

“There are some very harsh words I’d like to use” about the parents, Sawyer said. “I will not refer to them as mom and dad or mother and father. They don’t deserve that title.”

He called this case one of the most difficult and deeply taxing investigations his office has seen.

“It’s weighed heavily on our community,” he said.

The recovery of remains
“This past week has been heart-wrenching for everyone,” Sawyer said.

He said he was “truly sickened” by what the investigation has uncovered.

A few human remains were recovered in Cedar Creek Reservoir. DNA tests show they are the biological offspring of the parents, Sawyer said.

“Extensive and deliberate efforts were made to destroy and conceal evidence following Javeayah’s death,” Sawyer said.

He said corrosive chemicals and other tools were used to “accelerate” the destruction of her body.

According to arrest warrants for the parents, the destruction of remains happened June 8.

Afterward, the parents “poured” what was left into the reservoir, he said, calling the actions “repulsive and revolting.”

“These subjects went to great lengths to cover their revolting and repulsive actions,” he said.

As a result, it’s doubtful that all of the girl’s remains will ever be recovered, Sawyer said.

“In my 37 years in law enforcement, I have never, ever heard of anything so horrific,” he said.

Additional charges of destruction and desecration of human remains were filed against the parents. Bond was denied Thursday afternoon because they’re considered flight risks.

Watch the bond hearings:

“Our commitment has been to pursue the truth, regardless of how difficult it may be,” Sawyer said.

“While today marks a painful chapter in this case it does not mark the end,” he said, adding that his staff will continue to work to see that justice is pursued.

He praised the support the community has shown for Javeayah.

“Even in the face of tragedy, compassion, unity and service remain stronger than the darkness we’ve encountered,” he said.

Sawyer was flanked at the news conference by dozens of staff members from his office, many of them wearing pink ribbons and ties in recognition of Javeayah’s favorite color.

Source: https://www.wrdw.com/2026/07/09/sheriff-said-javeayah-harris-remains-found-reservoir/