Mother to Stand Trial for Meth-Laced Breast Milk

A Humboldt County judge has ordered a woman to stand trial in the death of her newborn son after he drank her methamphetamine-laced breast milk.

Maggie Jean Wortman is charged with involuntary manslaughter and child endangerment.

Deputy District Attorney Ben McLaughlin told the Times-Standard of Eureka that his office is considering whether to upgrade the charge. He says prosecutors may pursue voluntary manslaughter or second-degree murder based on evidence presented during Wednesday's preliminary hearing.

Authorities say Wortman used meth during her pregnancy and after her children were born and passed on the drug through her breast milk.

Toxicology reports on the body of 6-week-old Michael Acosta III came back positive for meth, and her 19-month-old daughter also tested positive for it.

Wortman's attorney, M.C. Bruce, did not immediately return a call for comment Thursday.