BANGOR, Maine — Hillary Goding pleaded guilty to counts of manslaughter and violating conditions of release in connection to the death of her 3-year-old daughter, Hailey, on June 6, 2021.
Goding, 30, of Old Town was originally indicted on counts of murder and manslaughter charges, but the murder charged was dismissed as a result of a plea agreement with the state.
Jeff Silverstein is representing Goding in this case.
"I believe that we would've been well-postured to defend against the murder allegation, but I'm in agreement with Ms. Goding that the matter would likely have resolved with a conviction of manslaughter which is what she plead to," Silverstein said.
Hailey was found unresponsive in their home and was then taken to the hospital. She died two days later. The state claims after reviewing Goding's phone records and surveillance cameras, Goding noticed Hailey was lethargic and had raspy breathing more than 24 hours before she called 911.
The state said a medical examiner identified Hailey's cause of death as exposure to fentanyl. The state added medical professionals believe the three-year-old could have survived if she received treatment sooner.
The state found Hillary to be responsible for not preventing Hailey's access to drugs in her home and for waiting more than 24 hours before seeking medical care for Hailey.
"She [Goding] elected that she did not want to proceed to trial, she knew what she is responsible for having done and she is willing to accept responsibility on a manslaughter basis," Silverstein said.
Goding's sentencing is expected to be scheduled for late October or early November. She faces up to 28 years in prison.
This story is developing and will be updated as more information becomes available.