Calgary parents charged in baby's death make 1st court appearance
Police say infant died of staph infection complicated by malnutrition
The parents of a 14-month-old Calgary child made their first court appearance Monday after being charged with criminal negligence in his death one year ago.
Jennifer Clark, 38, and Jeromie Clark, 34, of north Calgary were arrested on Dec. 12, 2014. Both have been charged with criminal negligence causing death and failure to provide the necessaries of life.
A 14-month-old boy was brought to a Calgary hospital by his parents on Nov. 28, 2013. The baby was treated but died the following day.
Staff Sgt. Doug Andrus said in a news conference on Saturday that the investigation was long and complex.
According to police, an autopsy later determined the cause of death to be a staph infection complicated by malnutrition.
Jennifer and Jeromie Clark will back in court on Tuesday. According to their lawyers, the couple is seeking bail. They have two other children.
Police say the family followed a strict dietary regimen based on an extreme interpretation of their faith. They are Seventh Day Adventists.
Church confirms Clarks are members
In a statement, the Calgary Central Adventist Church said it was saddened to learn of the tragic death of the baby and confirmed that the Clarks are members of the denomination.
However, Pastor Randy Barber said the Clarks had not been active in the church for eight years and he was unaware of the situation in the household.
The statement said the church has a mission to "not only promote healthful living but also make every effort to share beneficial health principles with members and the community at large. Many churches offer classes on smoking cessation and how to prepare healthful, balanced and delicious meals."