HomeBreaking NewsWoman Charged in Toddler’s Death Granted Bail

Woman Charged in Toddler’s Death Granted Bail

Woman Charged in Toddler’s Death Granted Bail

Woman Charged in Toddler’s Death Granted Bail

A 56-year-old Belize City woman has been granted bail after being arraigned on charges of manslaughter by negligence and child abandonment in connection with the October 2024 death of a toddler under her care.

Jennifer Fitzgibbon appeared this morning in court, where she was formally read two indictable charges related to the death of 4-year-old King Shakel Wade. The child drowned while in Fitzgibbon’s care.

Defence attorney Norman Rodriguez argued that Fitzgibbon was not a flight risk, had cooperated fully with police during the investigation, and lacked a passport. He also said that Fitzgibbon, a grandmother, had no intention of harming the child.

Ultimately, the court granted bail of $5,000 plus two sureties of $2,500 each, with strict conditions. Chief among them: Fitzgibbon is prohibited from engaging in any form of babysitting or caregiving while the case remains before the court.The magistrate warned that violating this order would result in a breach of her bail terms.

The prosecution did not object to bail but echoed the court’s concern and supported the restriction on childcare duties.

No plea was taken, as the charges are indictable and will be tried in the Supreme Court. Fitzgibbon is set to return to court on October 9, 2025.

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