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Philadelphia Mother Charged After Infant Drowns in Hotel Spa Tub

Prosecutors say surveillance, photos from the mother's phone and a 0.149% blood-alcohol reading underpin involuntary manslaughter and child-endangerment charges as the case moves to arraignment on Sept. 25.

Overview

  • Diontae Nicole Beckett, 25, was charged with involuntary manslaughter and endangering the welfare of a child following the May 11 death of her five-month-old daughter at a Best Western in Leacock Township.
  • Investigators say hotel surveillance showed Beckett entering the lobby carrying the infant who appeared lifeless and that several guests tried CPR and called 911 before first responders arrived.
  • Police report finding a photo and video on Beckett’s phone showing the child in the hotel spa tub and say Beckett initially denied placing the infant in the tub.
  • A chemical breath test taken by investigators measured Beckett’s blood-alcohol content at 0.149%, which prosecutors cite as evidence of intoxication when she spoke to officers.
  • Beckett waived a preliminary hearing on Aug. 26, was released on $100,000 bail, and is scheduled for arraignment in Lancaster County court on Sept. 25 as prosecutors prepare their case.