VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. - Police have arrested a woman after a 4-month-old child was found not breathing at her home.
Police and EMS responded to the 800 block of Levy Loop just before noon on August 15.
When paramedics arrived, they attempted to resuscitate the baby but were unsuccessful. The infant was pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigators discovered that the person who called 911 was operating an unlicensed daycare out of her home. According to police, there were more children than were legally allowed to be under her care at the time.
Court documents say there were 17 kids at her day care.
Police have not released any details on how the baby died, but in court, Rice's defense attorney said the baby did not have any bruises or broken bones.
Marlene Gail Rice, 48, is charged with one count of abuse and neglect of children. She was granted a $25,000 bond in court on Wednesday.
Her defense attorney said she did not have a criminal history, and the commonwealth's attorney said she isn't a flight risk.
"It's a tough time for family. We'd rather not have anything go public before we want to," said Cara Rice, who identified herself as Rice's daughter-in-law. "I have nothing to say right now. You guys can put that on the record. There's nothing to tell."
Police are still investigating the incident.
