LEWISTON, Idaho (AP) - A northern Idaho baby sitter accused of killing a 2-year-old in her care has been found innocent.
According to reports, 31-year-old Natasha N. Hodges wept as the jury read their verdict Wednesday clearing her of first-degree murder.
The trial stemmed from the 2012 death of 2-year-old Rylee Mingo. Hodges was accused of striking the child so forcefully in the abdomen that the blow tore a major vein. The defense argued that it was unclear when the vein was ruptured, as Mingo was diagnosed with pancreatitis after death.
Hodges waived her right to a speedy trial in 2013. The proceedings lasted eight days and the jury deliberated for two hours before proclaiming Hodges not guilty.
