An Oregon mother is on trial after prosecutors accused her of failing to protect her 2-month-old daughter from ongoing abuse by her boyfriend, which allegedly led to the baby’s death in 2023.
Mother Accused of Failing to Protect Baby
Deborah Albin is facing manslaughter and criminal mistreatment charges in connection with the death of her daughter, Opal Oaks.
Prosecutors allege Albin allowed her boyfriend, Andrew Oaks, to physically abuse the infant and use drugs around her without reporting the abuse or seeking medical care.
According to prosecutors, Opal suffered severe injuries, including 18 rib fractures, blunt-force trauma, and methamphetamine exposure before her death in February 2023.
Prosecutors Describe Ongoing Abuse
During trial proceedings, prosecutors claimed Oaks regularly handled the baby violently and “tossed her around like a rag doll.”
Authorities also alleged that Oaks later admitted to a cellmate that he squeezed the baby until she stopped crying.
Prosecutors argued that Albin knew about the abuse and failed to protect her daughter.
Defense Says Mother Was Also Abused
Albin’s defense team argued that she was also a victim of abuse and lived in fear of Oaks.
However, prosecutors said she stayed in contact with him despite a no-contact order and failed to alert police even after witnessing abusive behavior.
Court documents also stated that internet searches found on Albin’s devices included questions about sick and gassy babies before Opal died.
Baby Died After Showing Signs of Illness
According to prosecutors, Albin noticed Opal appeared bloated and sick on the day of her death.
Instead of calling emergency services immediately, she reportedly contacted Oaks’ mother, who was a nurse. The nurse then advised her to call 911.
Authorities said Opal had already suffered extensive injuries by the time help was called.
Boyfriend Also Facing Charges
Andrew Oaks has separately been charged with second-degree murder, manslaughter, and criminal mistreatment in connection with the child’s death.
He has not yet gone to trial.
If convicted, Albin could face up to 30 years in prison.
