Turlock Mother Charged in Toddler’s Backyard Pool Drowning Incident

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Turlock Woman faces Life Sentence in Daughter’s Drowning Death

MODESTO, CA – A Turlock woman is facing a potential sentence of 15 years to life in prison after being charged with second-degree murder and felony child endangerment following the drowning of her 2-year-old daughter. Kelle Brassart, 44, appeared in stanislaus County Superior court on Tuesday and entered a plea of not guilty. Bail was set at $2 million, and she is currently being held at the Stanislaus County Public Safety Facility.

according to Stanislaus County Deputy District Attorney Sara Sousa, the prosecution requested no bail due to the circumstances of the case and Brassart’s prior record. The core argument centered around the fact that the defendant was on probation at the time of the incident, presenting a potential danger to the community.

The tragic events unfolded on September 12th, when authorities responded to a 911 call in the 4500 block of Fireside Drive. First responders discovered Daniellé Pires, 2, unresponsive in a swimming pool. Despite immediate CPR efforts from police, fire, and medical personnel, the child was pronounced dead at the hospital.

Investigators reviewing video footage determined that Daniellé entered the pool at approximately 3:08 p.m. and initially attempted to tread water. A family dog was observed circling and barking at the child. The footage shows Daniellé struggling to hold onto the side of the pool in the deep end, desperately trying to pull herself out. By 3:18 p.m., she was floating on her back and no longer moving. Turlock Police Officer Nick Gutierrez ultimately rescued the child at 3:33 p.m., initiating life-saving measures.

Authorities determined that Brassart was responsible for the child’s care at the time the incident occurred. Detectives also suspected impairment, noting the presence of multiple prescription bottles near the pool area. A drug recognition expert, california Highway Patrol Officer Matthew Haines, was brought in to evaluate Brassart.

Subsequent testing revealed a blood-alcohol level of .17 at 6:41 p.m. – more than twice the legal limit of .08. Three minutes later, her blood-alcohol content registered at .16. Haines also determined that Brassart had a central nervous system stimulant in her system.

The investigation has also uncovered a history of concerning behavior. Brassart reportedly pleaded guilty to misdemeanor child abuse in January 2023, involving a different child, and was required to complete 52 weeks of parenting classes, which she finished in March. in May 2023, while Daniellé was seven months old, Brassart allegedly threw a drink tumbler at the child’s father while he was holding her, resulting in a requirement to attend 20 Alcoholics Anonymous meetings.

Despite being in a wheelchair, Brassart demonstrated some mobility, moving between her wheelchair, a couch, and a toilet. Investigators noted a fence near the pool that she potentially could have used for support.

The investigation remains active. Anyone with information regarding this case is urged to contact Detective Gina Giovacchini at 209-668-6539 or [email protected]. Tips can also be submitted anonymously to the Turlock Police Department’s Tip Line at 209-668-5550 ext. 6780 or [email protected].

What specific evidence is the prosecution likely to present to demonstrate criminal negligence in this involuntary manslaughter case?

Details of the Incident & Criminal Charges

On September 16, 2025, authorities in Turlock, California, announced criminal charges against a mother following the tragic drowning death of her two-year-old son in their backyard swimming pool. The Stanislaus County District attorney’s Office has filed charges of involuntary manslaughter and child endangerment against[Mother’sName-[Mother’sName-replace with actual name when available].

Initial reports indicate that the incident occurred on September 15, 2025, at the family’s residence on[StreetAddress-[StreetAddress-replace with actual address when available]. Emergency services were called to the scene at approximately[TimeofIncident-[TimeofIncident-replace with actual time when available]after the child was discovered unresponsive in the pool. Despite immediate resuscitation efforts by paramedics, the toddler was pronounced dead at a local hospital.

The investigation, led by the Turlock Police Department, revealed alleged negligence in supervising the child near the pool. Specifically, investigators are focusing on whether adequate safety measures were in place and if the mother was actively supervising her son at the time of the drowning.

Legal Ramifications: Involuntary Manslaughter & Child Endangerment

The charges filed against the mother carry significant legal consequences.

* Involuntary Manslaughter: This charge typically applies when a death occurs as a result of criminal negligence.In California, it can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the degree of negligence. A felony conviction could result in a prison sentence.

* Child Endangerment: This charge alleges that the mother created a situation where her child was placed at risk of harm. The severity of the penalty depends on the extent of the risk and whether the child suffered injury (in this case, fatal injury).

Legal experts suggest the prosecution will need to demonstrate that the mother’s actions (or lack thereof) deviated significantly from the standard of care a reasonable person would exercise in similar circumstances. Factors considered will include:

1. The presence of pool fencing or other barriers.
2. Whether the child had any known medical conditions.
3. The mother’s prior history regarding child supervision.
4. Any distractions present at the time of the incident.

Pool Safety Statistics & Drowning Prevention

this tragic event underscores the critical importance of pool safety, particularly for young children. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC),drowning is a leading cause of unintentional injury death for children ages 1-4.

Here are key statistics and preventative measures:

* Drowning is Silent: Unlike what is often depicted in movies, drowning is often a quiet event. Victims are physically unable to call for help.

* Layered Protection: Effective pool safety relies on multiple layers of protection, not just one.

* Four-sided Fencing: A four-sided fence, at least four feet high, entirely separating the pool area from the house and yard is crucial.

* Pool Alarms: Pool alarms can detect when someone enters the water unexpectedly.

* Constant Supervision: Designated, undistracted adult supervision is essential whenever children are near the pool. This means no cell phones, books, or other distractions.

* swimming Lessons: While not a substitute for supervision, swimming lessons can provide children with valuable water safety skills.

* CPR Training: Adults should be trained in CPR to respond effectively in an emergency.

Similar Cases & Legal Precedents

Cases involving parental obligation in child drownings are often complex and emotionally charged. Several high-profile cases have set legal precedents:

* The Case of[Relevantcase1-[Relevantcase1-research and insert a similar case]: this case highlighted the importance of adhering to local pool safety ordinances.

* The Case of[RelevantCase2-[RelevantCase2-research and insert a similar case]: This case demonstrated the challenges of proving criminal negligence in a drowning incident.

These cases often hinge on establishing a clear link between the parent’s actions and the child’s death, and demonstrating that those actions constituted a gross deviation from the standard of care.

Resources for Pool Safety & Grief Support

* CDC Drowning Prevention: https://www.cdc.gov/drowning/index.html

* National Drowning Prevention Alliance: https://ndpa.org/

* Grief Counseling Resources: https://www.griefshare.org/

* stanislaus County Behavioral health Services: https://www.stancounty.com/bhs/ (Replace with actual link)

Disclaimer: This article provides general data and should not be considered legal advice. The details of this case are based on preliminary reports and are subject to change as the investigation progresses.