Parents Justin Soll and Shannon Wester are facing charges in connection with the February death of their infant daughter, Emilia, who lived for just eight days. Prosecutors allege the baby suffered brain damage due to exposure to cocaine, which was found on her pacifier. The couple, who both face up to 11 years in prison, initially shared their grief on social media following Emilia's death.
According to court documents, both parents were originally indicted on multiple charges, including involuntary manslaughter, third-degree child endangering, and cocaine possession. Prior to their arrest, Justin Soll shared photos of an urn containing Emilia's ashes, her hospital tags, and a bag with a lock of her hair. He also posted what he claimed was Emilia's first smile. His partner, Shannon Wester, shared similar mementos, including a photo of Emilia's urn, accompanied by captions expressing her deep loss.
In June, four months after Emilia's death, Wester posted what she described as the first selfie since her daughter's passing, noting that the light had gone out of her eyes. Soll had also posted about his excitement for his wedding to Wester late last year, prior to Emilia's birth. The couple's social media posts at the time of Emilia's death focused on their grief and did not mention the circumstances of her passing or the presence of cocaine on her pacifier. Soll posed with a teddy bear made from Emilia's blanket, given to them by a friend.