A young mother faces murder charges after her infant tragically dies during a breastfeeding session, sparking debate on whether she deserves punishment or support in her time of need.
A heart-wrenching case has emerged involving a young mother, Celina Juarez, who is now facing murder charges after her eight-month-old baby died while she was attempting to breastfeed her. Juarez, a mother of three, struggled with breastfeeding her infant twins and is now pleading for public donations to help her get assistance.
The 29-year-old was arrested in San Jose when authorities discovered she had allegedly caused the death of her baby girl, Melani, by smothering her with her breast during a feeding session. On November 4, 2022, Juarez held Melani against her breast for ten minutes, ignoring the infant’s kicks and gasps for air. In her frustration, she continued holding the baby until she stopped moving and ceased breathing.
A photo obtained by the Daily Mail shows Juarez with Melani, Melani’s twin sister Zari, their two-year-old brother, and the children’s father. Despite the tragic circumstances, Juarez’s family stands by her side, pleading with the public for donations to help the mother in need.
The Juarez family insists the tragedy was an accident, but police claim the mother intentionally deprived her child of oxygen, resulting in her death. The family believes Juarez was overwhelmed, struggling to care for her toddler son and twin girls simultaneously. Now, her husband, Artemio, has launched a fundraising campaign titled “Celina’s freedom,” which has raised a portion of their $10,000 goal.
Supporters of the family have donated over $3,000, believing that the mother made a grave mistake in a moment of desperation. Artemio passionately argues that Celina is also a victim and that her character is not consistent with the charges against her.
Several friends of the family have come forward to defend the distraught mother. Jesus Carbajal emphasizes the importance of mental health awareness, stating that Juarez is experiencing a tragedy and deserves the freedom and mental health services rather than incarceration. Crystal Conroy agrees, asserting that this is a mother in need of help, not vilification.
“We love her and we know the truth, and we wish everyone can be more aware of mental health and that nobody is immune, she is going through a tragedy and she deserves the freedom and mental health services, not incarcerating her for an accident,” Jesus Carbajal said.
“This is a mother who needs help, not to be vilified,” said Crystal Conroy, another friend.
As the family continues to seek donations for Juarez’s defense and assistance, the public is left to grapple with the question of whether this mother should be condemned or aided in her time of need.
Source: AWM
