An Alabama mother was sentenced to consecutive life prison terms on Friday following her conviction in connection with the severe abuse of her 1-year-old son, prosecutors announced.
Wendy Pamela Jean Bailey, 24, pleaded guilty to charges of first-degree domestic violence and aggravated child abuse of a child younger than 6. Prosecutors accused Bailey of knowing about the physical abuse inflicted on her son, Kahleb Collins, by his father, Steven Collins, and failing to intervene or contact authorities.
The consecutive life sentences were handed down by a judge and announced on July 10 by 24th Judicial Circuit District Attorney Andy Hamlin.
“This was a deeply upsetting case for our community. People were horrified by what happened to Kahleb, and many have followed this case closely from the beginning,” Hamlin said in a statement. “Based on the evidence and the timeline that was established, Steven Collins carried out unthinkable acts against this child that we believe ultimately led to his death. Wendy Bailey was aware of the abuse and did nothing to stop it or report it.”
Defense attorney Stuart D. Albea said Bailey chose to plead guilty to take accountability for her inaction, while also noting the environment inside the home.
“Wendy accepted responsibility today because she believes that’s what accountability requires,” Albea said in a statement. “This case also cannot be understood without acknowledging the abuse she endured herself at the hands of Steven Collins — but that context doesn’t erase what happened to Kahleb, and she has never suggested it should. Our thoughts are with everyone who loved this child.”
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