HENRY COUNTY, Ga. — Jennifer and Joseph Rosenbaum are headed to the state penitentiary after a jury found them guilty on multiple charges in court, Thursday. They were accused of murdering a 2-year-old girl, Laila Daniel, who died in their foster care.
After weeks of testimony from witnesses called by prosecutors and the defense, the Rosenbaums learned their fate. Jennifer Rosenbaum was sentenced to life plus 40 years to serve. Her husband, Joseph, was sentenced to 50 years with 30 to serve.
Laila died on Nov. 17, 2015. The Rosenbaums claimed she choked on a piece of chicken, but a medical examiner ruled she died from abuse and had sustained a number of injuries during her time with the Rosenbaums, including:
- Transected pancreas
- Severe blood loss
- Broken bones in arms and legs
- Bruising on neck, face, abdomen, legs
- Inadequate nutrition
The Rosenbaums seemed the ideal foster parents for Laila and her sister.
Jennifer worked for the Henry County District Attorney’s Office and was running for a seat on the Henry County Commission.
Laila’s mother knew Jennifer Rosenbaum from their time as foster children together. That’s how the mother chose the Rosenbaums for temporary custody of her children.
Their trial began in Henry County Wednesday, July 10. Less than a month later, the jury handed down their verdict on Thursday, Aug. 1.
TRIAL COVERAGE:
DAY SEVEN: ‘Millie told me Laila had been asleep’: ER nurse who treated girls on day Laila Daniel died
DAY NINE: 'Significant blunt impact trauma:' Medical examiner says Laila Daniel did not die from choking
DAY TWELVE: Defense expert says toddler killed by foster mom’s ‘panicked attempt to save Laila’s life’
DAY FOURTEEN: Awaiting the verdict in the foster parent murder trial
DAY FIFTEEN: As jury deliberates, judge reprimands AJC reporter accused of speaking to Rosenbaum juror on break
