Jessica Meade, 28, of New Albany, Indiana, was sentenced to 16 years in jail for neglecting her one-year-old child. The incident occurred when the youngster was found in severe condition after aspirating, probably as a result of shellfish eating. Meade and her boyfriend gave conflicting accounts of the incident, and video evidence showed her wrapping the infant in layers of blankets and duct tape, raising concerns about the child's safety. In October 2024, Meade reached a plea agreement, admitting guilt to one count of carelessness resulting in serious physical injury. In exchange, prosecutors dropped another accusation of aggravated assault. Meade was sentenced to 16 years in the Indiana Department of Corrections and has already served 370 days. The case has sparked interest among local officials and community members, with Floyd County Prosecutor Chris Lane thanking law enforcement for their prompt actions and Deputy Prosecutor Kristin Perdue underlining the sadness of cases where a parent fails to safeguard their child from danger.
Jessica Meade. Autographed Letter, Signed. Handwritten, Commercial #10 (4.125 × 9.5 envelope). Indianapolis, IN. December 2, 2024. Content unknown. SEALED.
Jessica Meade: Case Overview and Sentencing
Background Information
Jessica Meade, a 28-year-old woman from New Albany, Indiana, was sentenced to 16 years in prison for neglecting her one-year-old child. The case came to light when emergency services responded to a report of an unconscious child on September 24, 2023. Upon arrival, they found the child in a critical state – pale and barely breathing – after having aspirated. Both Meade and her child were transported to Baptist Floyd Hospital for urgent medical care.
Incident Details
The circumstances surrounding the incident revealed alarming details about the child’s condition. According to reports, the child had consumed shellfish prior to being put down for a nap. It was suggested that the child might have been allergic to shellfish, leading to vomiting and choking shortly after being laid down. During the investigation, it was noted that Meade and her boyfriend provided inconsistent accounts of what transpired before the emergency call was made.
A significant piece of evidence presented during the investigation included video footage showing Meade wrapping her child in layers of blankets and duct tape. This disturbing act raised serious concerns about the child’s safety and well-being under her care.
Legal Proceedings
Following these events, Jessica Meade faced charges related to neglect resulting in serious bodily injury. On October 3, 2024, she entered a plea agreement where she pleaded guilty to one count of neglect of a dependent resulting in serious bodily injury. In exchange for her guilty plea, prosecutors dropped an additional charge of aggravated assault that posed a substantial risk of death.
Floyd County Superior Court Judge Carrie K. Stiller sentenced Meade to 16 years in the Indiana Department of Corrections while crediting her with time already served (370 days). Furthermore, she was prohibited from any contact with her son as part of the sentencing conditions.
Community Response
The case has drawn significant attention from local authorities and community members alike. Floyd County Prosecutor Chris Lane expressed gratitude towards law enforcement and emergency responders for their swift actions during this tragic incident. He emphasized the importance of accountability within the community regarding acts of violence or neglect against vulnerable individuals such as children.
Deputy Prosecutor Kristin Perdue highlighted the tragedy inherent in cases where a parent fails to protect their child from harm – a sentiment echoed by many who followed this case closely.
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