Published in Firm News,Verdicts and Settlements on December 2, 2024
For the last year, our litigation team represented two parents whose newborn infant son suffered a tragic death while under the care of a Missouri foster parent. The child died from asphyxia while co-sleeping with the defendant on a couch, contrary to established foster care safety regulations and training. Recently, the Greene County Circuit Court entered a judgment in favor of the plaintiffs and against the foster parent, awarding $4.5 million in damages to compensate them for their profound loss. Co-sleeping with a newborn is dangerous because it increases the risk of 
suffocation, asphyxiation, or sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) due to the infant’s inability to reposition themselves if their airway becomes blocked. Soft surfaces like mattresses, pillows, or couches can trap the baby, leading to restricted breathing. Additionally, a sleeping adult may unintentionally roll over onto the infant, causing fatal injuries or smothering. To ensure a safe sleep environment, infants should always be placed on their back in a crib or bassinet with a firm mattress and no loose bedding or soft objects. If your loved one lost their life due to the carelessness of another, we can help.