Judge rules 10-year-old girl incompetent in death of 6-month-old at home day care

CHIPPEWA FALLS — A judge in western Wisconsin has found a 10-year-old girl incompetent to stand trial on charges she killed a baby in her care last year.

Dunn County Judge James Peterson's ruling Tuesday means the homicide case against the girl will be suspended indefinitely.

Peterson agreed with a psychologist that it's possible the girl could become competent within the next year. The judge ordered the girl be re-examined quarterly. She will return to court July 3.

Prosecutor Richard Dufour said it's likely the girl eventually will be committed.

The Leader-Telegram reports the girl sat quietly throughout the hearing.

The girl told investigators she panicked after dropping the 6-month-old baby at a home day care and then stomped on his head when he began crying.