Hillsboro, MO – A Jefferson County woman accused of killing her two children last year has pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity.
According to the Jefferson County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, Ashley Parmeley entered her plea Wednesday to two counts of first-degree murder stemming from the May 28, 2024 deaths of her children. Prosecutors said the plea was based on Missouri law, which allows a person to be found not responsible for their actions if they are deemed incapable of understanding the nature or wrongfulness of their conduct due to mental illness or defect.
The case was reviewed by an independent forensic examiner at the request of Parmeley’s attorney, who concluded that she could not comprehend the wrongfulness of her actions at the time of the incident. First Assistant Prosecutor Courtney Goodwin then sought a second opinion from the Missouri Department of Mental Health, which reached the same conclusion.
Based on those evaluations, Judge Joseph Rathert ordered Parmeley committed to the Department of Mental Health.
Officials said the victims’ family has asked for privacy and requested that the media not contact them. Prosecutor Trisha C. Stefanski extended condolences to the family and expressed appreciation to first responders involved in the case.
Parmeley had faced the possibility of a life sentence if convicted of first-degree murder without the insanity plea. Her commitment to the Department of Mental Health means she will remain under state supervision and psychiatric care.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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