FRANKFORT, Ky. (WEVV) — The Kentucky Supreme Court has affirmed the murder conviction of Lauren Baker, a woman from Kenton County, for the fentanyl-related death of her 2-year-old son.
Attorney General Russell Coleman announced that Baker will continue to serve her 33-year sentence.
In 2023, Baker was found guilty of wanton murder and two counts of trafficking in a controlled substance in the first degree. The court determined she posed a severe risk of death by exposing her son to fentanyl, which he ultimately ingested.
Attorney General Coleman highlighted the importance of the ruling, stating, “This decision sets a crucial precedent: Kentuckians who place their children and loved ones in danger by exposing them to these lethal drugs will be held responsible when tragedy strikes.”
The toxicology report for the child indicated a fentanyl concentration nearly ten times what would be lethal for an adult. Baker admitted to acquiring the drug using her stimulus check just days before the incident occurred.
James Havey represented the Commonwealth in the Supreme Court, while Commonwealth’s Attorney Rob Sanders, along with Taylor Roof and Maria Wentz, prosecuted the case in circuit court.
Coleman expressed his condolences over the tragic loss, saying, “While this ruling is undoubtedly a victory, nothing can restore that young child’s life, and we continue to grieve the innocent life taken too soon.”
