A Pekin woman accused of killing an infant she was babysitting was denied pretrial release on Thursday.
Tazewell County Judge Derek Asbury said he heard "clear and convincing evidence" Makenna Rhodes could present a threat to other minors if released, including to her own infant child.
Rhodes, 21, is charged with first-degree murder in the death of the 10-month-old child. According to court documents, Rhodes was babysitting on June 26 when first-responders were called for an unresponsive infant. The child was pronounced dead at an area hospital.
The cause of death was ruled to be due to asphyxiation, with injuries consistent with pressure being applied to the face, authorities said.
Asbury heard arguments from both sides Tuesday. The state filed a motion to deny Rhodes pretrial release, stating in court that Rhodes would present a threat to other minors. The defense proposed a supervised release plan, in which Rhodes would be confined at home, wear an ankle monitor and be supervised by family members.
The ruling was delayed until Thursday after both sides agreed the judge should watch the full video of Rhodes' interviews with detectives.
Under the supervised release plan proposed by the defense, Rhodes would not be allowed contact with any minors under the age of 18, including her child. Asbury said asking Rhodes' family to keep her infant child away from her would be an “impossible burden” to place on them.
He said the GPS monitor would not help in this case, because the child could be brought to her. Asbury said his decision would have been impacted if the Department of Children and Family Services were involved in the case, but the agency is not currently.
Public defender Luke Taylor said he anticipates the decision will be appealed. Rhodes' next court appearance is scheduled for Aug. 15.
