Home / Crime and Justice / Chaplain: Mother Heard Voice Before Killing Children
Chaplain: Mother Heard Voice Before Killing Children
21 Aug
Summary
- Chaplain testified mother believed she saved her children.
- Mother claimed a persistent voice commanded the killings.
- Trial nears closing arguments with expert testimony expected.
A chaplain testified in the murder trial of Lindsay Clancy that Clancy believed she had saved her three children after strangling them. Sheila Cavanaugh, a chaplain at Brigham and Women's Hospital, stated that Clancy confided she heard a persistent male voice that instructed her to kill the children, or they would not be safe.
Clancy, who has pleaded not guilty to three counts of first-degree murder, claims she was experiencing postpartum psychosis and was compelled by this voice. The prosecution contends the killings were premeditated, driven by Clancy's desire to end her life and take her children with her.
Prosecutors have questioned Clancy's claims, highlighting that she never mentioned hearing voices to medical providers before the slayings. The chaplain's detailed notes from their interactions did not record Clancy mentioning a commanding voice. The trial is currently winding down, with the defense expected to call a postpartum mental health expert and closing arguments anticipated early next week.
Outside the courthouse, a large group of supporters gathered to show solidarity with Clancy, prompting the judge to question the jury to ensure impartiality. All jurors affirmed their ability to render a fair verdict.
