An Oakdale woman is facing multiple felony charges, including murder, for the death of her four-year-old daughter following an incident earlier this month. Juliette Marie Acosta, 26, was arrested on suspicion of DUI on March 8, after her car was found in an irrigation canal near Hickman in Stanislaus County. Authorities have now charged her with a series of felonies related to the incident, according to a Facebook post from the Stanislaus County District Attorney.
This tragic event claimed the life of her daughter Reagan Herrin. The additional charges pinned on Acosta include vehicular manslaughter, and permitting a child to suffer under circumstances likely to cause great bodily injury or death. The complaint alleges that at the time of the crash, Acosta's blood alcohol content was nearly three times over the legal limit. Details provided by the District Attorney suggest that after the accident Acosta "left her partially submerged car, while her daughter remained trapped inside", and was later "located taking a bath while her daughter remained in peril at the crash scene".
The gravity of the situation is reflected in the potential life sentence that Acosta faces if convicted on all counts. District Attorney Jeff Laugero made it clear that the investigation would adhere to careful scrutiny to ensure justice for the victim. "We recognize the significant interest the community has in this case," Laugero claimed, "however, our responsibility to both the victim and the integrity of our legal system requires a thorough investigation based on the evidence and the law."
Commendations were extended to the California Highway Patrol and assisting agencies for their investigative efforts. "I extend my sincere gratitude to the California Highway Patrol and all assisting agencies for their dedication and professionalism throughout this investigation," shared Laugero, recognizing the agencies' role in establishing the facts of the case. The investigation led by the CHP working with its Multi-Disciplinary Accident Investigation Team (MAIT) remains ongoing. Public contributions are encouraged, with Detective A. Norseen requesting any information regarding the incident at 209-545-7440.
Currently, Acosta is being held without bail but will have the opportunity for a bail hearing during legal proceedings. The court, considering public safety, risk of flight and the severity of the charges, will determine bail arrangements. As this heart-rending case unfolds, media inquiries are being directed to [email protected].
