A woman from Lethbridge, Alberta, has been sentenced to 900 days in jail after her 13-year-old son died from a drug overdose on Christmas Day 2024. The incident unfolded when both mother and son used drugs together at their home, where the boy later overdosed. Emergency response was delayed as 911 calls were disconnected, and the mother provided false information about her son’s whereabouts. Despite evidence of the boy’s medical distress and spending the night outside, no timely medical assistance was sought. The court convicted the mother in July 2025 of criminal negligence causing death, with a remaining sentence of 678 days after accounting for time served.
Details of the Incident
On December 25, 2024, the tragic death of a 13-year-old boy in Lethbridge was linked to a drug overdose that occurred in the family home. Reports indicate that both the mother and her son consumed drugs together prior to the incident. The boy subsequently experienced a medical emergency due to the overdose. Attempts to get emergency help were hindered when 911 calls were disconnected during the critical moments.
Delay and Misrepresentation of Emergency Response
Emergency responders were not immediately dispatched as the mother reportedly provided false information regarding her son’s location. This misinformation, combined with the disconnected emergency calls, significantly delayed the arrival of medical assistance. Witness statements and evidence presented at trial suggested that the boy showed clear signs of distress throughout the night, including spending extended periods outside the home, without receiving timely medical intervention.
Legal Proceedings and Sentencing
Following a thorough investigation, the mother was charged with criminal negligence causing death. In July 2025, the court found her guilty, concluding that her actions and omissions directly contributed to her son’s fatal overdose. The sentencing accounted for time she had already served in custody, resulting in a remaining jail term of 678 days, bringing the total sentence to 900 days.
Context and Implications
This case highlights critical issues surrounding drug use in familial settings and the importance of timely emergency response. It also underscores the legal responsibilities of caregivers to seek immediate medical assistance for minors in distress. The court’s ruling serves as a precedent in emphasizing accountability in cases of neglect leading to fatal outcomes.
Summary
- 13-year-old boy died of a drug overdose on Christmas Day 2024 in Lethbridge.
- The mother and son used drugs together prior to the overdose.
- 911 calls were disconnected, and the mother provided false information, delaying emergency response.
- The mother was convicted of criminal negligence causing death in July 2025.
- She received a total jail sentence of 900 days, with 678 days remaining after time served.
Conclusion
The sentencing of the Lethbridge mother to 900 days in jail for criminal negligence causing death marks a significant judicial response to the tragic overdose death of her 13-year-old son. This case brings attention to the devastating impact of drug use within families and the critical need for prompt and accurate emergency communication. It also reinforces the legal obligations of caregivers to act responsibly to protect vulnerable minors. The court’s decision aims to uphold accountability and may influence future cases involving neglect and preventable deaths due to delayed medical intervention.
