A Boston mother, Dayanna Familia, 35, has been charged in connection with the August death of her 4-year-old daughter, Liyanna. Prosecutors allege that Familia told emergency responders her daughter turned blue after drinking milk, concealing the fact that the child was suffering from fentanyl poisoning.
Familia was arrested on Saturday and arraigned in Dorchester on Monday, facing charges that include manslaughter. According to prosecutors, emergency medical personnel were attempting to save Liyanna's life on August 17 when Familia made the misleading statement about the cause of her daughter's condition. The child ultimately died after being transported to a local hospital. Officials stated that Liyanna died from unknowingly ingesting fentanyl.
Prosecutors further allege that Familia attempted to conceal and destroy a white powder, suspected to be fentanyl, as evidenced by body camera footage. A search warrant executed at her home also reportedly uncovered fentanyl.
Familia pleaded not guilty to the charges during her arraignment. Her attorney argued for a $10,000 bail, citing financial hardship for the family. The judge set bail at $250,000, and Familia is scheduled to return to court on November 20.
An attorney for Familia did not immediately respond to requests for comment.