KINGSBURY, N.Y. (AP) — Two people have been charged in the overdose death of a 13-month-old New York girl who ingested heroin and cocaine.
The baby’s mother, 27-year-old Rachel Ball, and 34-year-old Joshua Bennett were charged Thursday with second-degree murder, manslaughter and assault.
Authorities say Kayleigh Cassell died Feb. 22 in a home in the Warren County town of Kingsbury where Bennett was staying.
Forensic pathologist Dr. Michael Sikirica says Kayleigh died of pneumonia and respiratory failure stemming from acute heroin and cocaine intoxication. He says the pneumonia is believed to have resulted from months of drug exposure.
Bennett pleaded not guilty at his morning arraignment. Ball is scheduled to be arraigned Thursday afternoon.