Mother on Trial for Leaving Toddler Alone for 10 Days: Can Depression Justify Her Actions?

CLEVELAND, Ohio – A woman in Cleveland, Ohio is on trial for leaving her 16-month-old daughter alone in a playpen for 10 days while she vacationed. The child was found dead when the woman, Kristel Candelario, returned home and called the police. Candelario has been arrested and pleaded guilty to aggravated murder and child endangerment, resulting in a life sentence. Candelario’s defense team has struggled to defend her actions, arguing that she was struggling with depression and anxiety. However, her lawyer, Derek Smith, emphasized that these mental health conditions do not excuse what happened. He … Read more