Hardin woman pleads guilty in child's death

Hardin woman pleads guilty in child's death

A 50-year-old Hardin woman has pleaded guilty to causing the death of a 3-year-old foster child who she left in a locked vehicle for several hours on a 93-degree day.

Lavonna Bird pleaded guilty to negligent homicide for the August 2011 death of Jaren Blacksmith during a District Court hearing in Columbus on Thursday.

Prosecutors say the boy tried to escape, but the windows were rolled up and the child locks were activated. He died of hyperthermia. An autopsy also found several bruises on the boy.

Bird's plea agreement calls for the state to recommend 20 years in custody with five suspended.

District Judge Blair Jones scheduled sentencing for Jan. 23. Bird remains free on $40,000 bond.