Candelario admitted to committing a serious crime and endangering a child. During her sentencing, Dr. Mooney explained how young children feel extreme separation anxiety between nine and 18 months. She described the heartbreaking final days of Jailyn, a toddler who suffered greatly.
The pain and suffering Jailyn went through lasted for days, possibly even a week. The feeling of abandonment, coupled with starvation and thirst, was unimaginable. When emergency responders found Jailyn, she was dehydrated and malnourished.
Candelario was sentenced to life in prison, closing a dark chapter in a case described by investigators as the most horrific they had ever seen. The law enforcement officials involved were deeply affected by the baby’s condition.
Security footage showed Candelario leaving her home with a suitcase and returning days later. After calling 911 for help, it was revealed that Jailyn was in critical condition. Despite dressing her in clean clothes, the horrors the girl had endured were evident.
Jailyn was found lying in a filthy mattress, emaciated and in poor health. Candelario had left her alone for days before seeking help. Her parents attributed her actions to mental health struggles, pleading for mercy from the judge.
Candelario expressed remorse and asked for forgiveness, but the judge condemned her betrayal of motherhood. He emphasized the sacred bond between a mother and child and sentenced her to life in prison without parole.
Detective Powell read a poignant poem in memory of Jailyn, highlighting the injustice of her tragic death. The community vowed to never forget the young life lost in such a heartbreaking manner.
