This case study discusses an attempted murder of a newborn. Angela Janecka plotted to kill the baby she was carrying from the point of finding out she had missed the opportunity to terminate the pregnancy. As the baby continued to grow, she began telling people she had miscarried, but she would have to carry the fetus to term before she could deliver the baby stillborn. On the day of the baby's birth, Janecka, alone, delivered a live baby girl at home with the intention of killing her. Unexpectedly, the father came home from work causing Janecka to panic and place the baby girl in a plastic bag, tie it and hide her in the dryer. Luckily, while home the father heard crying and thought it was their cats. He then found the bag and opened it to find a healthy baby girl. This case study will showcase the diligent collaboration among different agencies, including law enforcement, Child Protection, and prosecution, to reach a common goal - justice for an unwanted baby. See this link for more information.
Learning Objectives:
Identify the importance of working as a multi-disciplinary team in child abuse investigations.
Recognize the importance of witness interviews in corroborating a child abuse case.
Understand the importance of a thorough investigation to defeat defense strategies in court.
