CLEVELAND, OHIO – A woman from Cleveland pleaded guilty to the aggravated murder of her 16-month-old daughter after leaving the toddler unattended for over a week while she went on vacation. Kristel Candelario, 32, returned home on June 16, 2023, to find her daughter, Jailyn Candelario, unresponsive, prompting her to call the authorities.
Upon arrival, police found Jailyn in a filthy playpen and pronounced her dead. An investigation revealed that the toddler had been left alone and unattended for an extended period, resulting in extreme dehydration. It was determined that Candelario had left her daughter while she vacationed in Detroit and Puerto Rico.
Candelario pleaded guilty to one count of aggravated murder and one count of endangering children in the case. She is set to be sentenced next month. Cuyahoga County Prosecutor Michael C. O’Malley expressed the unimaginable nature of the case and the need for justice for Jailyn, stating that the conviction is the first step towards that justice.
The tragic case highlights the importance of responsible caregiving and the severe consequences of neglecting the well-being of young children. The guilty plea underscores the impact of parental actions on the lives of innocent and vulnerable individuals. The sentencing next month provides an opportunity for accountability and closure in a heartbreaking case that has deeply affected the community.