Richland Nanny Guilty of Manslaughter After 2nd Trial
Benton County officials say it was a very rewarding verdict.
Over four years have passed since the death of Ryder Morrison of Richland, who died in 2011 near his first birthday. The live-in nanny Kelli Jacobsen was tried two years ago, but jurors could not reach a verdict. The case was brought back again, and Wednesday the nanny was found guilty of second-degree manslaughter for negligently causing Ryder's death.
In this most recent trial, prosecutors provided several medical experts who testified Morrison suffered far more injuries and bruising than what would come from a fall from a toy, like Jacobsen claimed. Morrison's mother had noticed the boy became unresponsive and took him to the hospital that day in 2011, he died an hour later. Experts said he had a traumatic brain injury, a spinal injury and 22 bruises.
Jacobsen's attorney argued Ryder was hurt by someone else who had access to the child.
Jacobsen will likely face a sentence in excess of the standard 15-20 months. She will be sentenced September 3rd.