The Nation - News from Jan. 8, 1989

Fourteen-year-old Eric Cottam was buried in Carverton, Pa., a victim of starvation who with other members of his family hadn’t eaten in 42 days although the family had nearly $4,000 saved up. His parents, Larry and Leona Cottam, were hospitalized for malnutrition and were unable to attend the service. They have been charged with criminal homicide. Larry Cottam, 39, said he didn’t use cash, bonds and bank accounts to buy food because it was a tithe belonging to God, according to an affidavit filed by state police. Cottam, a former Seventh-day Adventist preacher, believed God would provide for his reclusive family, acquaintances said. Eric’s sister, Laura, 12, was listed in serious condition at Mercy Hospital.