Full Breakdown
Trump Says He Lacks Authority to Pardon Mother Accused of Killing Three Children
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event: Pardon Plea and Presidential Response
Defense attorney Kevin Reddington publicly asked former President Donald Trump to intervene on behalf of Lindsay Clancy, a Massachusetts mother charged with the 2023 strangling deaths of her three children (ages ranging from five years to eight months). Reddington made the appeal on September 8 during a “Good Morning America” interview and reiterated it in a later television appearance. Trump responded on Sunday, stating that the matter is a state-level case and that he has no power to grant a pardon for state offenses.
Background & Context: Trial, Mistrial, and Mental-Health Defense
Clancy has pleaded not guilty to murder charges. Her defense team argues she suffered from postpartum psychosis, claiming hallucinations and delusions after the birth of her third child. The jury was deadlocked, with a foreperson reporting that a male juror expressed “reasonable doubt,” leading the judge to declare a mistrial. The case is set for a status hearing later this month, after which a new trial could be scheduled for the fall.
Official Statements & Responses
He reiterated that any intervention would be limited because the alleged crimes are state offenses. Governor Maura Healey confirmed she does not have pardon authority in the ongoing case. Reddington expressed hope that the prosecutor might revisit the issue and reach a mutually acceptable resolution, though no official decision has been announced.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I'd like to say that perhaps Donald Trump, who felt compelled to speak out about this case, may very well ... Mr. President, I would hope that you would consider this young lady, the type of person she is, what she has been through, and consider a pardon,” — Kevin Reddington, defense attorney
- “I don't have the authority to pardon,” — Gov. Maura Healey
- “I hope, however, after sitting through this trial and seeing the evidence that was presented from the government, as well as from the defense, that he would revisit that issue and hopefully would be willing to work something out that would be acceptable to both sides,” — Kevin Reddington, defense attorney
- “There’ll be a price. It’s going to be mental institution or jail or something, but I guess they’re going to go through another trial.” — Donald Trump, president
What’s Next
Clancy is scheduled to appear for a status hearing later this month, during which the court will address trial assignment and a rule allowing a judge to review the jury’s verdict. Prosecutors have not indicated whether they will seek a retrial, but her defense team says they are prepared to proceed as early as next week if a new trial is ordered.