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Mother Charged in the Death of Eighteen-Day-Old Infant

Prosecutor Kym Worthy has charged Jaila Thomas, 22 (DOB: 08/11/1997) of Detroit, in connection with the death of her 18-day-old infant Lauren Williams. On August 26, 2019 at 5:30 a.m., it is alleged that the Defendant had been drinking and was alone in her apartment in the 19630 block of Schoenherr when she discovered her infant unresponsive, floating face down in the bathtub. Medics were called and pronounced the infant deceased. Investigation in the case led to the arrest and charging of Thomas in the homicide of her child. The infant died from drowning in the bath tub.

Prosecutor Worthy said, "The alleged facts in this case are appalling. This baby was only in this world for eighteen days. Do I really have to say this? Don't attempt to care for any infant when you are intoxicated. This shouldn't happen if a person is "a little" intoxicated. Please don't do it."

Thomas has been charged with Involuntary Manslaughter and Child Abuse - Second Degree.*

Thomas was arraigned today at 10:30 a.m. before 36th District Court Magistrate Dawn White. The Probable Cause Conference is scheduled for September 12, 2019 at 8:30 a.m.; the Preliminary Examination is scheduled for September 19, 2019 at 1:30 p.m. Both hearings are before Judge Michael Wagner in 36th District Court. The defendant received a $150,000 cash/surety bond. Please request a photograph of the defendant from the Detroit Police Department.

*The charges are allegations and defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

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