TURLOCK, CALIFORNIA — A jury has convicted a California mother of murdering her young daughter. Kelle Anne Brassart, 45, was found guilty on Tuesday of second-degree murder and felony child endangerment. The verdict stems from the drowning death of her 2-year-old daughter, Daniellé Pires.
Distracted by Dating Apps
The incident occurred on September 12. Brassart called 911 around 3:30 p.m. to report that her daughter was floating unresponsive in the family swimming pool. First responders pulled the child from the water and attempted life-saving measures, but she could not be revived.
District Attorney Jeff Laugero stated that Brassart made no attempt to rescue the child. Prosecutors presented evidence that Brassart spent approximately 45 minutes on her phone leading up to the tragedy. She was reportedly chatting with men on dating apps while her daughter was left unattended outside. Surveillance footage showed the toddler fell into the pool while unsupervised.
Claims of Injury Disproved
Brassart initially told investigators she could not reach her daughter because of a leg injury. She claimed she required the use of a wheelchair. However, evidence presented at trial contradicted this account. Video footage showed Brassart walking and standing without assistance prior to the drowning. She was also seen driving and attending nail appointments.
Intoxication and Prior Negligence
Investigators discovered empty liquor bottles inside the home. A subsequent blood alcohol test showed Brassart’s level was 0.246% at the time of the incident. This is more than three times the legal driving limit in California.
The child’s father was at work during the drowning. He had reportedly asked Brassart not to consume alcohol while caring for their daughter. Prosecutors revealed that Brassart was already on probation for child abuse at the time. Another child in her care had previously been hospitalized after ingesting medication.
Deputy District Attorney Sara Sousa stated that Brassart failed in her duty to care for her child. Sousa argued that the defendant's conduct was reckless and indifferent to human life. Brassart is scheduled for sentencing on February 5 and faces 15 years to life in prison.
For more cases related to crimes involving parental negligence, check out our video here:
