A woman has been jailed after admitting to shaking her baby daughter, resulting in the infant's tragic death. Melissa Wilband, 32, was sentenced to six years in prison following the incident that claimed the life of her 10-month-old daughter, Lexi.
A Heartbreaking Admission
Wilband initially denied harming her child but later pleaded guilty to manslaughter. The court heard how Lexi suffered catastrophic brain injuries consistent with shaken baby syndrome. Medical experts confirmed the injuries were non-accidental and could only have been caused by violent shaking.
The Tragic Consequences
Lexi was rushed to hospital unconscious but never recovered from her injuries. She died three days later when life support was withdrawn. The judge described the case as "particularly distressing" and emphasized the vulnerability of young children.
Warning Signs Missed
Social services had been involved with the family prior to Lexi's death, raising questions about whether more could have been done to protect the infant. However, investigators found no evidence that could have predicted this tragic outcome.
A Sentence That Reflects the Gravity
Passing sentence, the judge told Wilband: "No sentence I can pass will bring Lexi back or reflect the value of her young life." The six-year term was reduced from nine years due to the guilty plea.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of infant life and the devastating consequences of losing control, even momentarily, with a young child.
