In a somber revisitation of a 2020 case, Florida prosecutors are reportedly considering the death penalty for Patricia Ripley, accused of the first-degree murder of her autistic 9-year-old son, Alejandro. The case, which has gripped the state with its wrenching narrative, might see Ripley facing capital punishment if convicted of the drowning death.

Ripley, 48, who is scheduled to stand trial on August 26, 2024, is also charged with kidnapping and child abuse among other offenses, according to NBC Miami. The prosecution's decision to possibly pursue the death penalty comes even as they have stated they are open to work out a plea deal with Ripley's defense team, though no specifics on an offer have come to light.

The tragedy occurred on May 21, 2020, when Ripley was caught on video pushing her son into a lake behind a housing complex in Kendall. He was saved by a bystander after neighbors alerted to his distress. Undeterred, she later led him to a canal at a golf course where Alejandro was ultimately found dead. In an arrest report cited by NBC Miami, Ripley recanted an initial abduction story and admitted to the crime, stating "he's going to be in a better place."

The Miami-Dade Police Department has released footage of the incident adding chilling confirmation to Ripley's admission. The indictment for first-degree murder was handed down after the horrific details came to light, as reported by WPTV. In disturbing contrast to a mother's duty to protect, police said Ripley after the rescue, attempted once more to ensure that her son would not survive the night.

Among the complicating factors in the legal proceedings is the COVID-19 pandemic, which has hindered face-to-face legal consultations. Ripley's defense lawyer, Suzy Ribero-Ayala, told WPTV that jail visits are still suspended due to the virus risk, limiting their discussions to virtual meetings. The next hearing is reportedly set for next week, where further details of the trial and potential plea negotiations may be elaborated upon.