DA: Linda Mother Won't Face Murder Charges In 11-Day-Old's Death
YUBA COUNTY (CBS13) - An 11-day-old infant died in July after she was allowed to leave the hospital with her mother, despite testing positive for drugs when she was born. Now, the Yuba County District Attorney's Office says the mother may not even face murder charges.
At the time of her birth, Destany tested positive for morphine and codeine. Then, days later, she would die inside a room filled with drugs and needles at Linda's Rio Inn and Suites.
According to an affidavit, Yuba County Child Protective Services knew Jennifer Sierra likely had a drug problem. She even admitted to using heroin three days before baby Destany was born.
However, because doctors can't confirm drugs were the cause of Destany's death, it isn't likely Sierra will be charged with murder, Deputy District Attorney Teresa P. Sydow told the Appeal-Democrat.
Sierra has been charged with felony child endangerment based on the drugs found in her motel room. Sydow also told the Appeal-Democrat Sierra will face an additional charge of child endangerment.
She remains in custody at Yuba County Jail.
