At just seven years old, AJ Hutto testified against his mother, Amanda Lewis, in a 2008 Florida trial, claiming he witnessed her drown his sister Adrianna in their backyard pool. Now 24, AJ has broken his silence, reaffirming his testimony: “One hundred percent guilty. I stand by every word I said.” His courtroom drawing and statement became pivotal evidence. The drawing showed three figures near the pool and was labeled with phrases like “She did” and “To Bad,” which AJ explained meant “she died” and “it was scary.”

Despite his young age, AJ was deemed a competent witness. He denies being coached and insists he simply told the truth. Lewis was convicted of first-degree murder and child abuse, receiving life without parole plus 30 years. She has always claimed Adrianna’s death was an accident.

An autopsy revealed bruising on Adrianna’s face resembling a handprint, and AJ said his mother dunked his sister after she misbehaved. The home environment was reportedly abusive and neglected. AJ was later adopted, became a firefighter, and built a new life. He has had no contact with Lewis, who is now seeking to overturn her conviction with new legal representation and claims of innocence.