Jackson, MS-A Gulf Coast man has pled guilty to failing to support his child, announced Attorney General Jim Hood today. 

Elmer McDonald, of 2605 Nina Drive, Picayune in Pearl River County entered his plea, to one count of Felony Child Desertion, in Harrison County Circuit Court.  He was sentenced yesterday by Judge Larry Bourgeois to five years, with five years suspended and five years post release supervision, in the custody of Mississippi Department of Corrections.  McDonald was ordered to pay $100.00 a month on top of his regular child support obligations of $108.00 in order to satisfy the $10,100.00 he owes in back child support.  He will go to jail if he fails to do so.  McDonald was also ordered to pay all other court costs and fees. 

“Our office is serious about child desertion in Mississippi,” said Attorney General Jim Hood.  “It is not only a sin not to support your child, it is also a CRIME.  If you don’t take care of your own flesh and blood, you will go to jail.”