A mother from Cleveland, Ohio, Kristel Candelario, has been sentenced to life in prison after leaving her 16-month-old daughter alone for 10 days while she went on holiday.

In June 2023, Kristel traveled to Puerto Rico and Detroit, leaving baby Jailyn in a playpen with only a few bottles of milk. Neighbors reported hearing the child crying multiple times, including late at night. When Kristel returned, Jailyn was found dead from starvation and dehydration, weighing seven pounds less than two months earlier.

Kristel pleaded guilty to aggravated murder and child endangerment. The judge called her actions “the ultimate betrayal,” saying, “The only difference between you and your daughter is that prison will feed you and give you water — things you denied her.”

Though her defense cited mental health struggles, prosecutors and the public condemned the neglect. Outrage spread online, with many urging parents to seek help if they’re overwhelmed.

Kristel was sentenced to life without parole for this heartbreaking case of cruelty and neglect.