JURY SELECTION IN ERLANDSON TRIAL

BEATING TO DEATH OF CHILD IS CHARGED

Darrell Glover

Jury selection in the trial of a Bothell-area woman for the beating death of her 28-month-old adopted daughter is scheduled to begin today in Snohomish County Superior Court.

Noreen Marie Erlandson, 39 ((age)), a nurse practitioner, is accused of beating the child, biting her on the neck and burning her in a bathtub of hot water.

Erlandson was released on her own recognizance after pleading innocent to a charge of second-degree murder in July. If convicted, she could be sentenced to 30 to 40 years in prison.

Kayla Erlandson died of head injuries April 26 at Harborview Medical Center in Seattle. Snohomish County Deputy Prosecutor David Hiltner said in court papers that Kayla's body was covered with injuries, including a bite mark on the left side of the neck.

Erlandson called paramedics to her home after finding Kayla unconscious the night of April 24. The accused woman's husband, Douglas Erlandson, a computer specialist, had returned home a short time before. He is not suspected of wrongdoing.

Kayla was flown to Harborview, where she had surgery to relieve pressure on the brain.

A month before the girl died, a Child Protective Services officer and deputy sheriff went to the Erlandson home to check a report of possible child abuse. The sheriff's office said someone had noticed bruises on the girl and notified CPS.

Erlandson told authorities Kayla had poor motor skills and hurt herself falling. Because there didn't appear to be a medical emergency, the mother was told to seek medical attention.

The Erlandsons also have an adopted 4-year-old son. He has been placed in a foster home.