A Maryland mother has been acquitted in the death of her teenage daughter who had wasted away to a mere 79 pounds. The woman, who had been charged with child abuse resulting in death, was found not guilty by a jury after a trial that lasted nearly two weeks. The case has brought attention to the issue of eating disorders and the lack of support for those struggling with them.
The 16-year-old girl, who was non-verbal and had autism, died in 2018 after her mother failed to seek medical help for her severe malnutrition. The teenager’s body was found covered in bruises and bedsores, suggesting long-term neglect and abuse. The mother had claimed that she was overwhelmed caring for her daughter, who had been in and out of hospitals for much of her life.
During the trial, the defense argued that the mother was not aware of the severity of her daughter’s condition and did not intend to harm her. They also pointed out that the girl had a history of behavioral issues and had been difficult to care for. The prosecution, however, painted a picture of a neglectful and abusive mother who had ignored her daughter’s obvious signs of distress.
The jury ultimately sided with the defense, finding the mother not guilty of the charges against her. Despite the acquittal, the case has sparked outrage and calls for better support for individuals with eating disorders and disabilities. Advocates are pushing for more education and resources to help parents and caregivers better understand and address the needs of those struggling with mental health issues.
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