Samantha and Matthew Dylewski, an upstate New York couple recently convicted in connection with the death of their 3-year-old daughter, solicited funds online shortly after her passing, according to court records and social media posts. The couple, both hoarders, received prison sentences of up to four years this month for their roles in the child’s death, which authorities say resulted from severe neglect.

Joycelynn Ann Dylewski was found deceased on February 19, 2025, in conditions described as deplorable. Investigators noted that the toddler exhibited signs of extreme neglect, including rotting teeth and lice infestations on her face at the time of her death. Medical and child welfare officials linked the cause to prolonged neglect under the care of her parents.

Despite the grim circumstances surrounding Joycelynn’s death, Samantha Dylewski posted a GoFundMe campaign on Facebook the day after the child died, requesting donations “To Help Give Jocelyn a Beautiful Goodbye.” The appeal raised questions among observers and officials, given the circumstances and her subsequent conviction.

The Dylewskis’ case drew attention to issues of child welfare and neglect in hoarding environments. Prosecutors argued that the conditions in the home and failure to provide adequate care directly contributed to Joycelynn’s death. Defense attorneys acknowledged the living environment but contended that the parents did not intend harm.

The couple was sentenced earlier this month, with terms reaching up to four years in state prison. The case continues to be cited as an example of the dangers posed by neglect exacerbated by hoarding behaviors, as well as the challenges child protective services face in preventing such tragedies.