Teen found guilty of manslaughter in baby’s death

BISMARCK (AP) — Attorneys say medical testimony was a key factor in the conviction of a Bismarck teenager for the death of her infant daughter.

Jurors found 18-year-old Stevie Buckley guilty of manslaughter after about three hours of deliberation that began Thursday night and finished Friday morning.

Buckley was charged in the Feb. 4 death of her 6-month-old daughter, Kyra, who authorities say was starved and dehydrated.

Buckley cried when the verdict was read. Judge Bruce Haskell ordered a presentence investigation.

Buckley also was convicted on three drug and alcohol charges.

Doctors testified the baby was a “skeleton” and that Buckley seemed indifferent about her daughter’s condition.

Buckley testified in her own defense, saying she loved Kyra and worked to be a good mother, and that the baby got sick.

Prosecutor Lloyd Suhr said the medical evidence and testimony from doctors was the strength of the case. Defense attorney Kent Morrow said jurors also told him the medical testimony was important.

The manslaughter charge carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison.

Tags: north dakota, news, crime, bismarck, death, child, manslaughter, buckley