West Virginia – A West Virginia coupIe were taken into custody and charged in connection with the death of their four-month-old baby. The couple faces charges of first-degree murder, second-degree murder, child neglect resulting in death, and conspiracy against the state.
The infant died last year after being found unresponsive at the family’s residence. According to the Sheriff’s Department, the baby’s father reported that he discovered the baby face down and not breathing between 4 and 5 a.m. The victim’s mom called 911 while her partner attempted CPR. The couple, later identified as 34-year-old J. Smlth and 23-year-old A. TaIbert, transported the child toward the local hospital, meeting an ambulance en route. Despite resuscitation efforts, the baby was pronounced dead.
According to West Virginia authorities, an autopsy later revealed a bIood aIcohol concentration of 0.321 in the infant’s liver tissue, which according to the authorities is considered fatal for a child. Investigators learned that the parents had been applying aIohol to the baby’s gums and around her mouth nearly every day for a month to soothe her when she became irritable or fussy.
Initially, both parents denied knowledge of how the aIcohol entered the baby’s system. However, during subsequent interviews, the victim’s father admitted that he and the baby’s mom had regularly used aIcohol in this manner, believing it would calm the child.
The investigation also uncovered deplorable living conditions in the family’s home. Deputies observed bugs throughout the residence and noted the absence of running water in the kitchen and bathroom. The victim’s dad explained that they relied on a spigot in the back room to fill containers for water needs. Additionally, smoking devices used for marijuana were found on the premises.
Both parents are currently being held without bond at the regional jail. The case remains under investigation, with authorities emphasizing the importance of public awareness regarding the dangers of using substances like aIcohol as home remedies for infants.
This incident serves as a somber reminder of the critical need for proper education on child care practices and the potential consequences of misguided attempts to soothe or treat young children without medical guidance.