Missouri – In a deeply disturbing case that has shocked people in both Missouri and Arkansas, a 45-year-old woman, A. Waterman, is now facing the death penalty after her appeal was denied by the Arkansas Supreme Court. Waterman is already serving two life sentences for kidnapping and causing death during a horrific 2022 incident.
What Happened in 2022?
In October 2022, Waterman used a fake name, “Lucy,” to trick a pregnant woman, A. Bush, aged 33, into meeting her under the false promise of a job offer. At the time, Bush was 31 weeks pregnant.
Waterman met Bush at a public library, claiming to help her get a work-from-home job. Days later, on October 31, they met again at a convenience store, supposedly to meet a “supervisor.” Instead, Waterman kidnapped Bush and took her to a remote location where she killed her and tried to remove the unborn baby from her womb.
The Shocking Details
Authorities found that Bush had been shot and suffered multiple stab wounds. Waterman tried to cut the baby out of Bush’s body and even burned her remains to hide the crime. She later lied to first responders, claiming she gave birth in her truck. In truth, the baby had already died due to Waterman’s actions.
The crime was so horrific that both federal and state prosecutors charged her. In July 2023, she pleaded guilty in federal court and received two life sentences without parole.
Why Is She Facing Another Trial?
Even though Waterman is already serving life in prison, Arkansas prosecutors have decided to seek the death penalty under state laws, arguing that she must also be held accountable for murder.
Waterman’s lawyers tried to stop the state trial, saying it would be “double jeopardy” to punish her again. But the Arkansas Supreme Court rejected this, stating that the federal case was for kidnapping and transporting a person across state lines, while the state case focuses on intentional murder.
Court’s Latest Decision
The court made it clear that both cases address different legal issues, and therefore the state trial can proceed. The court also emphasized that capital murder requires proof of planning and intent, which is different from the federal charges.
Waterman’s state trial is set to begin with a pretrial hearing on July 7. If she is found guilty again, she could receive the death penalty, making her one of the rare people to be executed while already serving a federal life sentence.
Victim’s Story and Public Reaction
A. Bush was a loving mother-to-be, just trying to find a job to support her future child. Her family described her as hopeful and hardworking. This horrific crime has left the community in shock and grief.
Prosecuting Attorney J. Robinson said that life in prison is not enough, and Arkansas law allows for further punishment for such cruel acts. Many people feel the same, believing justice is still incomplete.