Authorities in Pennsylvania say a 39-year-old woman remains jailed without bail after investigators discovered the remains of four infants hidden in her rental home following an eviction.
What Happened
State police said Jessica Marie Mauthe of Cardogan Township was charged Thursday with criminal homicide, involuntary manslaughter, four counts of concealing the death of a child, and four counts of abuse of a corpse.
The investigation began on August 30, when landlord Brent Flanigan changed the locks on the home after evicting Mauthe for nearly a year of unpaid rent. Days later, while preparing the property for a new tenant, Flanigan and a worker noticed a strong odor coming from a trash bag inside a bedroom closet. Inside, they discovered the remains of an infant and immediately contacted police.
Further searches and interviews with Mauthe led authorities to find additional remains hidden in the attic and elsewhere, bringing the total to four deceased infants.
Who Is Jessica Mauthe
Mauthe had been living in the rental home with her two young sons, ages 6 and 8, while her husband, Jacob Mauthe, serves a prison sentence for DUI and endangering the welfare of children. The children are now in the care of extended family, police confirmed.
Background and Allegations
According to affidavits cited by local outlets, Mauthe admitted to police that she gave birth alone on at least two occasions. In one case, she said the newborn made noises after delivery, but she wrapped the infant in a towel and placed the body into bags once it stopped breathing. In another incident, she reportedly passed out on top of her baby and awoke to find the child dead.
Authorities believe the births may have occurred over several years, with one possibly dating back six years. None of the births or deaths were reported, and investigators are reviewing medical records and interviewing family and acquaintances to determine how the pregnancies went undetected.
Public and Community Reactions
The case has stunned the Cardogan Township community, located about 35 miles northeast of Pittsburgh. Neighbors and locals have expressed shock over how such events could occur unnoticed for so long. Many have also voiced concern for the well-being of the surviving children.
What Happens Next
Mauthe is currently being held without bail in Armstrong County Jail and is expected back in court on Monday. State police said the investigation remains active as they work to establish timelines for each child’s birth and death.
Authorities have not yet released information on whether additional charges could follow pending autopsy results and further investigation.
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
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