Bronx mother found not guilty by reason of insanity in children's deaths amid Clancy case

A Bronx judge has found Dimone Fleming, 26, not guilty by reason of insanity for the 2022 deaths of her 3-year-old son and 11-month-old son. The ruling acknowledges that Fleming was not criminally responsible due to severe mental illness at the time of the killings, which occurred at a family shelter in the Bronx.

“

grossly psychotic and out of touch with reality

Both prosecution and defense mental health experts agreed that Fleming was experiencing psychosis, was out of touch with reality, and suffered from hallucinations. One prosecution psychiatrist noted Fleming believed a spirit had invaded her body, while defense experts stated she felt her actions were necessary for her children's protection or "cleansing." Fleming had a history of mental health treatment, including a diagnosis of major depressive disorder, but reportedly did not consistently take prescribed medication and used marijuana, which may have exacerbated her symptoms.

“

believed her actions were necessary to protect or “cleanse” her children

The children were discovered with multiple stab wounds in a bathtub after a shelter employee reported water and smoke emanating from Fleming's apartment. Police initially took Fleming for an evaluation due to her irrational behavior. Their bodies were found later by their father. Fleming, who was 22 at the time, had been charged with first-degree murder. Prosecutors indicated that a double-murder trial would not serve justice and highlighted the importance of public discourse on such cases.

“

good person

Fleming will remain in custody pending a further psychiatric evaluation to determine if she poses a threat to others, with a court date set for September 18. She could remain in a psychiatric hospital for an extended period. The children's father, Columbus Canada, attended the hearing and expressed forgiveness, describing Fleming as a "good person" and a loving mother. This case draws significant attention as a Massachusetts jury deliberates the fate of Lindsay Clancy, accused of killing her three children amid claims of postpartum psychosis.

“

loving mother