A mother has been handed a life sentence after leaving her 16-month-old child alone for 10 days while she went on a trip.
Kristel Candelario, 32, from Cleveland, Ohio, traveled to Puerto Rico and Detroit in June 2023, leaving her daughter, Jailyn, confined in a playpen at home.
After returning 10 days later, she discovered Jailyn had died from severe dehydration and starvation.
📹 Neighbours heard distress
Security footage from neighbours reportedly recorded Jailyn crying several times, including during the early morning, just two days after Kristel departed.
She had been left with only a few milk bottles and was found in a soiled playpen, weighing seven pounds less than she had two months prior.
⚖️ Judge labels it “the ultimate betrayal”
In February 2024, Kristel pleaded guilty to aggravated murder and child endangerment.
During sentencing in March, the judge stated:
“The only difference between you and your daughter is that prison will provide food and water – things you denied her.”
🏖️ Reason behind her actions
Kristel’s defense argued she was dealing with mental health challenges and had stopped taking her medication. Prosecutors emphasized that nothing could justify the suffering her child endured.
👶 Public outrage
Social media reacted with shock and anger. Comments included:
“How could someone do this? My heart breaks for that baby.”
“If you’re struggling as a parent, SEEK HELP. This is unimaginable.”
🚨 Life sentence handed down
Kristel was sentenced to life in prison without parole, with authorities labeling the case as one of extreme neglect and cruelty.
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