NEW YORK – The mother of an emaciated 4-year-old girl who weighed less than 18 pounds when she was found dead in her New York City home has been indicted on murder charges.
Carlotta Brett-Pierce of Brooklyn already had been jailed on charges of assault, endangering the welfare of a child and drug possession. Prosecutors say the indictment Monday added charges of murder and manslaughter.
The city medical examiner's office has said Marchella Pierce died Sept. 2 of child abuse syndrome, including acute drug poisoning, blunt impact injuries, malnutrition and dehydration.
Brett-Pierce could face up to 25 years to life in prison if convicted. The lawyer who represented her previously did not immediately return a call Tuesday seeking comment.
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