UPDATE: A shocking discovery has been made in western Pennsylvania as police confirm the grim find of four deceased newborns in the home of Jessica Mauthe, a 39-year-old woman who was living at the property. This alarming incident unfolded after her landlord reported finding one of the bodies, leading authorities to uncover a scene of horror.
The investigation began last month when the landlord, unsuspecting of the horrors within, called the police after discovering a lifeless infant wrapped in towels and garbage bags hidden in a closet. Upon arrival at the scene, officers were horrified to find three more newborns concealed in tote bags and buckets in the attic, revealing a chilling pattern of neglect.
Mauthe has since been arrested and appeared in court before District Judge J. Gary DeComo, where she pleaded not guilty to charges including criminal homicide and involuntary manslaughter. Court records indicate she faces additional allegations concerning the concealment of a child’s death and the abuse of a corpse.
A Pennsylvania State trooper testified that the homicide charges pertain to the most recent child she gave birth to approximately 18 months ago. The manslaughter accusations relate to the first child born around six years prior. Disturbingly, Mauthe recounted the circumstances of the births, claiming each child was delivered in the bathroom, with harrowing details emerging about their final moments.
During the court proceedings, Mauthe allegedly described the first baby making a “whimper” before she lost consciousness. She stated she found herself lying on top of the infant, who she claimed was already dead. The status of the second and third infants remains unclear, yet Mauthe referred to the third newborn, known as “Baby C” in legal documents, as having made no noise after delivery.
The fourth child, also born in a toilet, was reportedly murdered by Mauthe. According to a probable cause affidavit, police revealed, “The child remained in the toilet for several minutes; during this time, she could hear the child making noises.” Mauthe confessed to holding the baby for 15 to 20 minutes before it ceased making sounds, expressing uncertainty about the cause of death, and whether it was due to her grip or her actions covering the child’s nose and mouth.
Defense attorney Chuck Pascal argued against the homicide and manslaughter charges, emphasizing the lack of evidence regarding the causes of death for the infants. Pascal suggested that Mauthe’s confessions could be questioned due to her mental state following childbirth, stating, “You can’t confess to a crime that can’t be proven in some other way.”
At this time, Mauthe remains in the Armstrong County Jail, denied bond as she faces multiple charges. The date for her next court appearance has yet to be announced.
This heart-wrenching case has shocked the local community and raises critical questions about maternal health and the support systems available for new mothers. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding these tragic deaths as the community grapples with the implications of this devastating discovery.
For more updates on this developing story, stay tuned.