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Galveston Jury Convicts Channel Yonko of Capital Murder in Toddler’s Death

Jurors rejected an insanity defense after hearing mental-health testimony.

Overview

  • The conviction results in life in prison without the possibility of parole because prosecutors had previously declined to seek the death penalty.
  • Defense attorney Margaret Hindman filed a notice of appeal following the verdict, according to court records.
  • Court records state hotel video showed 17-month-old Hannah falling from a third-floor balcony, and a probable cause affidavit asserts she had also been stabbed.
  • Investigators reported finding a trash bag in the hotel’s parking garage containing a skinning knife, diapers, toys and the room key card tied to Yonko’s room.
  • Forensic psychiatrist Edward Gripon found Yonko competent to stand trial, and the jury rejected claims she was insane or believed she was possessed.