Newton County Father Sentenced to Decades for Torture-Like Child Abuse

Carey Clark has been sentenced to 30 years in prison followed by 30 years on probation for his role in the abuse and neglect of his biological children. The sentencing took place on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, after the Newton County Court considered a pre-sentencing investigation and arguments from both the State and the defense. The Court ultimately adopted the State’s recommendation.

In April, a Newton County jury convicted Clark of Aggravated Battery and multiple counts of Cruelty to Children in the Second Degree. Evidence presented during the trial revealed that Clark and co-defendant Nora Rodgers failed to provide necessary sustenance to several children under the age of 10, physically injured them, and forced them to perform strenuous exercises, including holding an 8-foot lawn timber over their heads. A doctor from Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta testified that the children’s ordeal amounted to torture.

Co-Defendant Nora Rodgers Previously Sentenced

Co-defendant Nora Rodgers was sentenced in December 2023 to 60 years, with the first 30 years in confinement, for her involvement in the abuse. District Attorney Randy McGinley commented at the time of her sentencing that the children had endured “torture under the guise of punishment.” He detailed how the children were subjected to “extreme bootcamp style exercises,” including running laps, squats with large logs, and jumping jacks for extended periods, often to the point of exhaustion and injury. These exercises were sometimes performed in the middle of the night and during hot summer temperatures. McGinley also stated that Rodgers would beat the children if the exercises were not performed to her satisfaction and would “spar with children, striking and hitting them.”

Both Clark and Rodgers received sentences reflecting the gravity of their crimes against young children. The children involved bravely testified in court, recounting the abuse and neglect they suffered, demonstrating remarkable strength.

“I want to thank the hard work of the prosecution team, the law enforcement officers, and the other agencies that were involved in this case. The dedication to the victims over the last 4 and a half years is inspiring. And, as I said after Rodger’s sentencing, a special thanks goes to the foster parents who cared for the children after their abuse and family of the children who reported the abuse. Those that step up to raise and care for children that have been abused are truly angels,” said DA Randy McGinley.