New Jersey

New Jersey Mom Charged in Toddler Daughter's Death to Remain in Custody Until Trial

A New Jersey mom who allegedly was high on drugs in her car and left her 2-year-old daughter unattended for hours in her car seat, where she fatally injured herself, will remain in custody until her trial.

A judge issued the ruling Wednesday after rejecting defense requests that bail be set for Deanna Joseph.

Her lawyer said much of the evidence against Joseph was "circumstantial." But the judge cited Joseph's extensive criminal record and noted that investigators found drugs and a defaced handgun allegedly belonging to her.

Joseph's daughter, Kayley Freeman, was found dead Aug. 26 in a car parked in the driveway of Joseph's home in Alloway with the engine running.

A cause of death has not been determined. But authorities have said it appears the child might have injured herself in the car seat.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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