October 11, 2024: DA Gascón Announces Charges Against Mother in the Death of Her Three Month Old Baby in Porter Ranch

Jalyn Simone SmithJermott is charged in the death of her three-month-old baby in September

PORTER RANCH, CA - Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón announced today that Jalyn Simone SmithJermott is charged with murdering her three-month-old baby in the city of Porter Ranch. The baby's father, Eric Shannon Johnson also is charged in the case with child abuse.

"My heart goes out to the victim, who suffered unimaginable pain at the hands of those who were meant to provide love, safety, and protection," said District Attorney Gascón. "Children, especially babies, depend on their parents and loved ones for care and nurturing. It is a profound betrayal when that trust is shattered. I want to assure the community that we will prosecute these offenders to the fullest extent of the law. We owe it to the victim and to all children who deserve a safe and loving environment."

Jalyn Simone SmithJermott (DOB: 8/3/03) and Eric Shannon Johnson (DOB 11/19/88) are charged in case 24SFCF01391. SmithJermott is charged with one count of murder, and one felony count of assault on a child causing death. Johnson is charged with one felony count of child abuse.

On September 10, the baby was found not breathing in his bassinet and was taken to the hospital where he was pronounced deceased.

Johnson was arraigned on October 7 and pleaded not guilty. A preliminary hearing for Johnson is scheduled October 17 in Dept. G of the San Fernando Courthouse. SmithJermott is scheduled to be arraigned October 14 in Dept. S.

If convicted as charged, SmithJermott faces a maximum sentence of 25 years to lifein state prison. Johnson faces six yearsin prison.

The case is being prosecuted by LADA's Family Violence Division's Complex Child Abuse Section and investigated by the Los Angeles Police Department.