WAYNE COUNTY, Mich. — A Michigan woman is accused of delivering a baby at her workplace, and then returning to work as if nothing had happened. Authorities say that decision cost the newborn his life.
“She indicated she had a miscarriage and that the remains were inside her desk,” Detective Kevin Crittenden with the Redford Police Department said.
Police have laid out in detail what they say 25-year-old Kimberly Pappas did in the bathroom at work on March 31st.
“It truly was a tragedy and it was surprising obviously in the manner that it occurred,” Detective Crittenden said.
Pappas is accused of giving birth to a baby boy in the toilet, pulling him out, cutting the umbilical cord, wrapping the newborn in a plastic bag and sticking him in her desk drawer, along with the placenta after trying to clean up. A little while later, Pappas wasn’t feeling well, and emergency crews and police showed up.
“The baby was still warm when rescue personnel found him,” Detective Crittenden said.
Pappas told police it was a miscarriage, but the Medical Examiner’s report shows the baby was alive and died of asphyxiation — leading to felony murder, first degree murder and first degree child abuse charges for Pappas.
In court, Pappas said very little as her parents looked on.
“I believe that there are serious mental health issues involving with my client,” Pappas’ attorney, Raymond Cassar said.
Cassar says his client was scared to have the baby, which is what led to this incident.
“I think she was concerned about what she was going to do with her life,” Cassar said.
Pappas was denied bail, and ordered to remain in jail.
“Most important thing for this young lady right now is treatment. The last thing she needs is to be in a jail cell,” Cassar said.
In court, a not guilty plea was entered on Pappas’ behalf.
