Woman who strangled baby to death in Connecticut in 1986 receives no jail time.
A woman in her sixties has been sentenced to five years of probation after pleading guilty to first-degree manslaughter in connection with the death of her newborn son in Greenwich, Connecticut, in 1986. Janita Phillips, now 65 years old, admitted to the killing of the infant, who was discovered deceased in a garbage truck shortly after his birth. This case, which had languished in obscurity for decades, was rekindled with new evidence and scrutiny leading to Phillips’ arrest in 2021.
Phillips had been a person of interest for years, but she was not arrested or interrogated immediately after the incident. Following the infant’s discovery, she and her husband relocated to Florida. It was not until 2019 that investigators revisited the case, and DNA evidence eventually linked Phillips to the crime.
During the proceedings, a psychological evaluation revealed that Phillips had been under severe emotional distress at the time of the incident. She and her husband had recently secured housing after experiencing homelessness, and he was opposed to having more children, a factor Phillips kept concealed from him during her pregnancy.
Judge Gary White presided over the sentencing and expressed initial reservations about the plea bargain, particularly given the gravity of the circumstances surrounding the case. However, the judge remarked that further insights into Phillips’ situation prompted a reconsideration of the deal, underscoring that the case required a balance between justice and mercy.
The baby, referred to by authorities as “Baby John,” was found lifeless shortly after his birth, leading to extensive investigations that ultimately went cold. It was only through recent advancements in forensic science and renewed interest from law enforcement that the case was reopened, culminating in Phillips’ confession to her role in the tragic event.
Under the terms of her probation, Phillips must adhere to strict regulations, and any violations could result in a harsh sentence: a 20-year prison term. This case highlights the complexities surrounding crimes of passion and mental health, igniting discussions on how the legal system addresses such sensitive issues.
Media News Source
