A 12-YEAR-old girl has been arrested for allegedly murdering her baby brother after he was found “not breathing” at home.
Police were called to the child’s home in the Westbank of Louisiana on November 15 after receiving a medical emergency in regards to an infant, according to police.
Despite life-saving attempts made by first responders, the child was unable to be revived.
The six-month-old’s death was ruled a homicide by an autopsy.
According to the St Charles Parish Sheriff’s Office, the baby boy’s 12-year-old sister was taken into custody on a first-degree murder charge just one day after the infant passed away.
Sheriff Greg Champagne revealed news of the arrest in a Thursday statement.
“Through an in-depth and still ongoing investigation, sufficient evidence was obtained to request an arrest warrant in relation to First Degree Murder, which was granted by the 29th Judicial District Court Honorable Judge Connie Aucoin,” the statement read.
On Monday, the 12-year-old girl was arrested, charged, and transported to a juvenile housing facility as she awaits further legal proceedings.
Gregory Carter, a New Orleans criminal defense attorney, is unsure whether the first-degree murder count was necessary.
He told NOLA.com: “To believe they’re culpable and capable of making the kind of decision that would warrant a first-degree murder charge seems like overkill.”
The victim’s identification has not been released by the sheriff’s office.
Police also waited 72 hours before sharing the arrest and homicide news with the public.
Meanwhile, police are still investigating the case.
However, according to NOLA.com, the aunt of the children has spoken out about her niece and deceased nephew.
Nicole Brown told WWL-TV on Thursday: “He was perfect. He was a beautiful baby, and she loved her brother.”
Brown urged the public to refrain from judging her family, adding: “This is a mother who’s lost two children, not just one. That’s both of her children.
“People are very, very judgmental. But sometimes, you’ve got to look within. It could be you tomorrow.”