Woman accused of leaving dead newborn baby in New Bedford park pleads guilty

NEW BEDFORD Mass. (WLNE) – A 22-year-old woman who was arrested back in July for improper disposal of a body pleaded guilty in court Tuesday.

Daniela Michell Escobar-Mejia was charged with improper disposal of a corpse back in July.

Escobar-Meija’s baby was found in Fort Taber Park on December 9, 2023.

Police said DNA analysis and surveillance footage led investigators to Escobar-Mejia.

Officials said due to the infant’s state of decomposition, it could not be determined whether the baby was alive before the alleged disposal and the cause of death could not be determined.

Escobar-Meija pleaded guilty and was sentenced to two years probation.

She was also referred for parenting classes and counseling.