An Omaha mother accused of child abuse that led to the death of her five month old daughter appeared in court for the first time on Tuesday.
A Douglas County judge set bail at $100,000 for 28 year old Ashley Newburn, who is facing a charge of Felony Child Abuse. On Thursday, March 15th Omaha Police called to a home near 48th and L for the report of an unresponsive infant, Justice Layton. Justice's parents, John Layton and Newburn, told officers that the family of four had been sleeping in the living room. They said Newburn was the only one awake when Justice went unconscious, limp and unresponsive.
The child was transported to Nebraska Medicine with CPR in progress and doctors advised that the infant's injuries indicated abuse. Prosecutors say Justice suffered eye bleeding and brain swelling, injuries that are consistent with "non-accidental trauma." Justice would later died from her injuries.
Newburn admitted to police that she was alone with Justice when the fatal injury occurred but refused to say what led to the injuries. The couple's six year old daughter, Alexxa, told officers about domestic violence she had witnessed between her parents, and as a result authorities believe she is in danger. Paperwork has been filed to remove Alexxa from the home.
Newburn faces a minimum of twenty years and a maximum of life in prison if found guilty.