Robey v. State

The question presented by this case is whether a parent who was temporarily insane when she beat her child may nonetheless be held criminally responsible for failing to seek necessary medical care for the child during subsequent periods of lucidity. We hold that she can be held responsible, and consequently affirm her conviction.

I

The Facts

The unfortunate course of events that gave rise to this question requires some elaboration.

On October 8, 1980, Christina Marie Hensley was born. Eight months later, on June 9, 1981, she died as a result of severe beatings inflicted on her by her mother, Joy…