Mother Accused of Murdering Her Baby Waives DNA Testing

Thank you for reading D.C. Witness. Help us continue our mission into 2024.

On Aug. 9, Faneshia Scott waived her right to independently test DNA evidence before D.C. Superior Court Judge Michael O’Keefe.

Scott, 33, is charged with multiple counts of first-degree cruelty to children with grave risk and first-degree murder while the victim was especially vulnerable due to age, for her alleged involvement in the death of her 16-month-old child Rhythm Fields on the 5400 block of C Street, SE. Fields’ lifeless body was found inside Scott’s apartment on March 21, 2017.

The exact circumstances surrounding Rhythm’s death are unknown. But according to court documents, authorities were called to the scene after concerns were raised about the baby’s well-being. Scott has been on release since Oct. 26, 2018.

At the hearing, the prosecution said they have not tested any evidence for DNA and do not intend to.

Scott’s defense attorney, Steven Kiersh, said this is “not a DNA case” and there is no reason for the defense to test any evidence. Scott waived her right to independent testing before the Court.

The defense said the trial is expected to take two months due to extensive expert testimony, but the prosecution said the length of the trial may be reduced as they continue to review the case.

Parties are expected to return on June 7, 2024, for a trial readiness hearing.

Follow this case