A tragic case that began in Waco, Texas, back in October 2023, has now come to a close. A mother whose baby died from methamphetamine poisoning has been sentenced to 40 years in prison.
This heartbreaking story is a painful reminder of the dangers of drug exposure to children and the deep responsibility that comes with being a parent.
What Happened in Waco?
On October 12, 2023, police in Waco responded to a call about a dead infant. When officers arrived, they found an 8-month-old baby girl lying lifeless in bed. Her mother, Nichole Ann Green, was present at the scene.
After a full investigation and toxicology reports, it was revealed that the baby had methamphetamine in her system. This led authorities to believe that the child had died due to unintentional drug poisoning.
Murder Charges Filed Against the Mother
Although the baby’s death was not intentional, the McLennan County District Attorney’s Office charged Nichole Ann Green with felony murder because she had been using and distributing meth at the time.
In December 2025, more than two years after the child’s death, Green was arrested and officially charged. She later pleaded guilty to felony murder, accepting responsibility for her role in her daughter’s death.
Green Sentenced to 40 Years in Prison
On May 2, 2025, Nichole Ann Green was sentenced to 40 years in prison. According to the court, she will be eligible for parole after 20 years.
Assistant District Attorney Will Hix stated, “Nichole Green’s irresponsibility and her involvement in selling illegal drugs caused the death of her child. This sentence ensures that she cannot harm any more children and avoids the risks of a long trial or appeals.”
A Painful Reality: Unintentional Drug Poisoning in Children
Sadly, this case is not the only one of its kind. The Children’s Safety Network reports that nearly 49 children under the age of 9 die each year in the U.S. due to unintentional drug poisoning. These are innocent lives lost due to carelessness, neglect, or dangerous environments.
While the justice system cannot bring the baby girl back, this sentence sends a message that actions have consequences—especially when a child’s life is at risk.