"Is M.S. eligible to be considered for referral to a mental
health diversion program pursuant to the newly enacted sections
1001.35 and 1001.36?"
Well, I honestly don't know what those statutes say. But just to get things started, I'd want to know how serious the crime was. More serious crimes probably aren't likely to get diversion.
"This appeal concerns the tragic death of Baby Boy A. . . ."
Oh no. Not one of these. So depressing.
". . . . following his home birth to then 15-year-old M.S."
Oh my goodness. Gave birth at home and then neglected the child, resulting in its death?! That's so incredibly sad.
"Frightened
that her parents would learn that she had been pregnant and
given birth, M.S. inflicted fatal cuts on A.’s throat, severing his
carotid artery and trachea. M.S. thereafter placed his body in a
plastic bag and concealed the bag in the bathroom vanity."
OMG. That's horrible. Simply horrible.
On so many different levels.
"During police questionings, M.S. initially asserted that the infant
was born stillborn but then stated that she accidentally wounded
him when she cut the umbilical cord. When confronted with the
medical examiner’s findings, however, M.S. finally admitted that
she used a kitchen knife to cut the infant’s throat."
At least she comes clean at the end.
But still. What an incredibly depressing way to begin our week.
Or to learn about a 15-year old girl and her infant son.
