A Connecticut woman has been arrested and charged with murder nearly ten years after her newborn baby was found dead in a dumpster. Dominique Harrison, 28, appeared in court on Monday for her arraignment following her arrest last week.
Prosecutors allege that Harrison abandoned her infant son, who was reportedly alive at the time, after giving birth. Deputy Assistant State's Attorney Mary Caitlin Harding stated in court that the facts suggest Harrison placed the newborn in a dumpster in a remote area, preventing anyone from saving the child's life. The circumstances and reasons for the eight-year delay in charging Harrison have not been fully disclosed.
According to Harding, law enforcement gathered evidence that led them to Harrison. After multiple rounds of questioning, she allegedly admitted to the crime. Harding also noted that Harrison gave interviews after her arrest that are prompting further investigation.
Prosecutors argued for Harrison to be held on a high bond, citing the alleged depravity of the crime. However, her defense attorney, Ryan McGuigan, disputed the prosecution's characterization of her as a danger to society. He stated that Harrison has been active in the community and maintained full-time employment.
Members of the victim's family were reportedly in tears as Harrison entered the courtroom. Officials have not yet revealed the exact cause of the newborn's death or further details regarding the investigation timeline.
Harrison is being held on a $2.5 million bond. She is scheduled to appear in court again on July 31.
