Former 16 and Pregnant star Whitney Purvis rose to fame after cameras documented her foray into motherhood as a highschool pupil — nevertheless it’s her authorized troubles which have stored her within the highlight.
Purvis was booked in a Georgia jail in reference to the overdose demise of John Mark Harris on July 7, charged with felony involuntary manslaughter, distribution of a managed substance and use of a communication machine to commit a felony involving managed substances.
“At present, DEA Atlanta and native regulation enforcement arrested Whitney Purvis in Floyd County, GA on costs of involuntary manslaughter as a consequence of fentanyl poisoning. This investigation is ongoing,” Jae W. Chung, Appearing Particular Agent in Cost of the Drug Enforcement Administration, Atlanta Subject Division, stated in a press release. “DEA reminds the general public that just about 70% of all drug-related deaths contain artificial opioids, like fentanyl. Two milligrams of fentanyl is a doubtlessly lethal dose.”
In accordance with authorities, Purvis allegedly gave Harris the narcotics that contributed to his overdose demise.
Sixteen years in the past, Weston Gosa Jr.’s start was televised on MTV. The fact present 16 and Pregnant documented the lives of pregnant teenagers together with Weston Jr.’s mom, Whitney Purvis, who delivered him through C-section in April 2009. MTV’s cameras captured the drama surrounding the second: In an sudden twist, Purvis welcomed her son on promenade […]
The arrest comes one month after the sudden demise of Purvis’ teenage son Weston, who she shared with ex Weston Gosa, Sr. In accordance with the kid’s father, he died of pure causes. The arrest can be one other instance of the various lows the younger actuality star has skilled since her time on actuality TV.
Here’s a take a look at all the things to learn about Whitney Purvis’ involuntary manslaughter arrest.
Whitney Purvis’ arrest
Whitney Purvis Floyd County Sheriff’s Workplace through Getty Photos
Purvis was arrested on July 7, 2025, on costs associated to possession with intent to distribute managed substances and involuntary manslaughter. The latter cost is in reference to the demise of John Mark Harris, who overdosed on tranq — a sedative usually utilized in veterinary drugs — allegedly provided by the truth star.
In Georgia, a cost of involuntary manslaughter can result in a prison sentence of as much as 10 years.
John Mark Harris’ demise
According to an online obituary, Harris died on February 17, 2025, at his residence in Rome, Georgia. Harris, who was born in Athens, Georgia, was the son of Chandler Ray Harris, Jr., and Lisa Cornett Harris, and was 37-years-old on the time of his demise.
“John Mark by no means met a stranger and had a method of caring for many who crossed his path. Whether or not it was bandaging a wound, journeys to the airport, or a spot to put their heads for a time, he was prepared to assist,” his obituary reads. “He liked fiercely and would do something he might for one in every of his buddies. John Mark gave one of the best hugs and had essentially the most infectious smile most had ever seen. He liked entertaining and the purpose of his gatherings was to spend high quality time and strengthening the relationships along with his buddies.”
Purvis wrote an obituary for Harris
Whitney Purvis Courtesy of Whitney Purvis /Instagram
Purvis appeared to depart a prolonged touch upon the obituary on March 3. “John Mark, I hate that I came upon what occurred immediately and missed your funeral. I want I might’ve came upon sooner and attended your celebration of life,” she wrote.
“Thanks for being such an important buddy to me and all the time making me really feel stunning and cared for,” Purvis continued. “You’ve got here to my rescue on many events and saved me over time. We bonded over being cooks, our love of cooking and our struggles. I might let you know something and also you all the time knew what to say or give me your sincere opinion and recommendation.”
“I don’t need it to be true,” Purvis additionally wrote. “I’ll miss sitting exterior, smoking camel crush cigs w/ you … Most of all, I’ll miss you, a really good hearted & one in every of a sort man, John Mark. I’ll always remember you. Relaxation in peace and my condolences to your loved ones and buddies. I pray they’re able to discover some type of consolation throughout this tragic time. I really like you eternally, John Mark. Love, Whitney.”
John Harris’ household spoke out
Additionally on July 7, Harris’ mom Lisa spoke about her son’s demise and Purvis’ arrest.
“She did this, and because of this, my son is lifeless,” Lisa instructed TMZ. Lisa added that she is “glad no person else should undergo this due to her actions.”
“The entire thing is so heartbreaking,” Lisa continued. “I really feel sorry for her — not as a result of she acquired arrested, however as a result of her life acquired to a degree of dealing medicine.”
Should you or somebody you recognize is combating substance abuse, contact the Substance Abuse and Psychological Well being Companies Administration (SAMHSA) Nationwide Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).