Mom Blamed Baby's Death on Co-Sleeping. Then Police Saw Her Ring.

A Florida woman told investigators that a 3-month-old baby died after she accidentally fell asleep with him. Detectives later focused on a large square-shaped ring she was wearing.

Jessica Vlasac, 42, of Lakeland, was arrested and charged with aggravated child abuse causing death after investigators said an autopsy did not support the co-sleeping explanation.

The First Account Focused on Sleeping

According to reporting by People based on the Polk County Sheriff’s Office investigation, Vlasac said she had fallen asleep with the baby and later found him unresponsive. Emergency responders tried to revive the infant, who was pronounced dead at a hospital.

An autopsy identified multiple head injuries that investigators said were inconsistent with the original account.

Detectives Looked at the Ring

Investigators noticed that Vlasac wore a large ring with a square-shaped setting. Authorities said the shape was consistent with one of the injuries identified during the medical examination.

Detectives seized the ring and electronic devices as the investigation continued. Authorities also reviewed messages between Vlasac and the baby’s father.

The Charge Remains an Allegation

Vlasac is being held without bond, according to the reporting. She also faces additional allegations related to her arrest.

She has not been convicted, and the charges will have to be proven in court.

The case began with one explanation for an infant’s death. Investigators say a small, everyday object on the caregiver’s hand became one of the details that led them in a different direction.

References: Mom Blamed Baby’s Death on Co-Sleeping. Then Investigators Took a Closer Look at Her Ring | Lakeland Woman Arrested in Death of 3-Month-Old Infant

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