Merrick mother charged in toddler’s death
Olivia Bithorn Russell is charged with manslaughter in connection with the death of her 18-month-old son, who prosecutors said died after a popcorn kernel became lodged in his throat. She was allegedly binge drinking in another room.
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A Merrick woman has been charged with manslaughter in connection with the death of her 18-month-old son, who prosecutors said died after a popcorn kernel became lodged in his throat.
Authorities said Luke Russell, Jr., known as “LJ,” ate a kernel which became lodged in his throat.
District Attorney Anne Donnelly said the child was likely dead for more than an hour before 911 was called.
It was LJ’s 3-year-old sister who apparently alerted the defendant that something was wrong.
Prosecutors said Olivia Bithorn Russell has long had substance abuse problems, including drinking while pregnant. They said the defendant’s husband, from whom she is separated, believed she’d been sober for months when the kids went to her Merrick apartment for that overnight visit in April. Authorities found a nearly empty bottle of Tito's vodka in the bathroom at the apartment.
The defendant pleaded not guilty earlier this month at her arraignment. Her attorney declined to comment to reporters. Bithorn Russell had been in treatment, but on Monday, after an insurance issue and the inability to find a new secure rehab facility, a judge set bail at $500,000 bond or $250,000 cash.
