While both sides agree she killed her children, Clancy’s attorneys argued she suffered from postpartum psychosis, with Kevin Reddington saying " lousy medical care" exacerbated her condition. Plymouth County prosecutors argued she intentionally planned the killings and that the nation’s healthcare system is " not on trial here."
The charges Clancy faces come with a host of possible penalties
Jurors must decide whether Clancy committed first-degree murder in each child’s death. The charge, which requires proof of premeditation and malice, carries a sentence of life without parole.
If jurors acquit her of that charge, they must consider lesser charges.
1. Second-degree murder: This carries a sentence of life with the possibility of parole. To be convicted on this charge, the killings must have been deliberate but not planned.
2. Manslaughter: This carries a sentence of up to 20 years in state prison. It is defined as an unlawful killing without intent to cause harm.
3. Not guilty: The jury could also conclude that Clancy killed the children but lacked criminal responsibility due to a mental disease or defect. This is known as the insanity defense.
If the jury finds Clancy not guilty, a judge can order an evaluation. If she is found mentally ill and a danger to herself or others, the court can commit her to a state mental hospital for six months. She would be assessed annually, but could remain hospitalized for the rest of her life.
If she is no longer considered dangerous or suffering from a mental illness, Clancy would be discharged.
