Judge allows statements in fetal abduction case

MILWAUKEE (AP) – A judge is allowing some incriminating statements of a woman accused of killing a pregnant woman and then trying to steal her unborn baby.

Attorneys for Annette Morales-Rodriguez argued the interrogation was improper and the statements last fall should be suppressed. A detective had questioned her in an emergency room without a warning of her right to remain silent.

A judge ruled Tuesday the statements should be allowed under a public welfare or emergency rescue exception, even though Morales-Rodriguez was a suspect in custody.

The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reports a detective previously testified he asked Morales-Rodriguez “What’s going on?” She then allegedly volunteered that she was sorry about the girl, which prompted him to ask questions in case a victim might still be saved.

Her trial starts next week.

Information from: Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, http://www.jsonline.com