Lindsay Clancy, a Massachusetts mother accused of strangling her three young children to death in January 2023 before attempting suicide, remains in a fragile mental state ahead of her murder trial. Her attorney, Kevin Reddington, recently argued in Plymouth County Superior Court for medical vehicle transport to hearings, citing ongoing suicide risks exacerbated by standard jail vans. The trial, delayed from February to July 20, 2026, highlights tensions between her defense’s insanity plea—rooted in postpartum psychosis—and prosecutors’ claims of premeditated murder.​​
Case Background
Clancy, a former labor and delivery nurse, allegedly sent her husband Patrick to buy dinner on January 24, 2023, then strangled 5-year-old Cora, 3-year-old Dawson, and 8-month-old Callan with exercise bands. She jumped from a second-story window, surviving but paralyzed from the chest down, and has appeared in court remotely from Tewksbury Hospital. Patrick Clancy has publicly forgiven her, attributing the act to illness rather than malice.
Recent Court Developments
Reddington warned that inadequate medical accommodations could trigger a “very real” suicide risk, stating any sense of helplessness in a prisoner van might provoke mental health crises. Prosecutors opposed the request, fearing it would portray Clancy as a victim to jurors and the public. The judge, having denied a venue change from Plymouth County, will rule soon on transport.
Defense vs. Prosecution
Defense asserts postpartum psychosis fueled by 15 prescribed medications for depression, supporting an insanity defense. Prosecutors cite “damning” pre-incident internet searches and notes showing resentment toward her children as evidence of planning. Clancy has pleaded not guilty to murder and strangulation charges.
