AUGUSTA, Maine (AP) — A Maine woman has pleaded guilty to manslaughter following the overdose death of her 14-month-old baby, which led to the discovery of a stash of drugs valued at $700,000.
Detectives went to Ashley Malloy’s home after she called 911 and her baby Karson died at the hospital. They discovered white powder on a sheet and blanket in the bedroom where Karson was sleeping. An autopsy determined the baby died of complications after being exposed to the powerful opioid fentanyl, law enforcement officials said.
Malloy, 22, of Oakland, pleaded guilty Wednesday to drugs in addition to manslaughter. She will be sentenced later.
Her lawyer argued that she did not understand the risk to the baby, which would be criminal negligence. The attorney said other people were trafficking drugs and that Malloy was only an accomplice, not an active participant.
Detectives found nearly 6 pounds (2.7 kilograms) of fentanyl, more than 3 pounds (1.4 kilograms) of methamphetamine, more than a pound (454 grams) of crack cocaine and more than $2,000 in cash in the apartment.
