Prosecutors said DNA and security footage identified a 22-year-old mother accused of dumping a dead newborn in a Massachusetts park for a stranger to discover weeks later. Prosecutors have charged Daniela Michell Escobar-Mejia with improper disposal of a body in the case.
“I want to thank investigators for their efforts in this very sad and tragic case,” Bristol County District Attorney Thomas M. Quinn III said in a statement, as reported by NBC Boston affiliate WBTS.
The situation was brought to light on December 9. According to a news release from the DA’s office, New Bedford police rushed to Fort Taber Park at 12:40 p.m. after receiving a 911 call reporting the finding of a deceased newborn.
Indiana MAN SENTENCED to 24 Years for Attempting to MEET CHILD FOR SEX in N.J. Sting Operation
When police arrived, they discovered that a woman had been wandering along the water with her niece when she observed a blanket among a tangle of plants and smelled decomposition. According to court documents, the woman observed maggots.
The woman approached the blanket and saw a white plastic bag wrapped inside, containing the rotting remains of a youngster, according to officials.
She instantly screamed out to two males nearby, one of whom dialed 911.
Authorities said DNA tests revealed that the boy, “Baby Doe,” had likely been killed for up to four weeks before his discovery. Prosecutors said they could not ascertain the cause or manner of death. It was also unclear whether the baby had been alive when he was abandoned.
At the time, investigators stated that they were evaluating several weeks’ worth of surveillance footage from the surrounding region and had collaborated with a private lab in Texas to do comprehensive genealogical and forensic testing of DNA and other evidence acquired in the case.
Texas MAN KILLED 17-year-old FRIEND by Shooting Him 13 TIMES AT SLEEPOVER, Claims Self-defense
“As part of our efforts, we have expedited and are utilizing advanced forensic technology in an attempt to establish a familial link to the deceased infant,” Quinn informed reporters at the time. “If you have any knowledge on this case, please come forward. “No piece of information is insignificant.”
She was released on personal recognizance and was scheduled to appear in court again on September 12.