Prosecution psychologist testifies Lindsay Clancy is criminally responsible as trial resumes
A forensic psychologist hired by prosecutors testified that Lindsay Clancy understood the illegality of killing her children, while the defense sought a mistrial over remarks about her religion. The case is set to move toward closing arguments.
The murder trial of Lindsay Clancy resumed Tuesday in Plymouth Superior Court after a forensic psychologist for the prosecution returned to the stand. Dr. Kirk Heilbrun, whose earlier testimony was halted when he referenced Clancy’s Catholic faith, continued his assessment, stating that Clancy was aware of the illegality of the killings and retained moral awareness despite a desire to die.
Defense attorney Kevin Reddington cross-examined Heilbrun, questioning the timing of interviews with Clancy and the psychologist’s credentials. Reddington highlighted that Clancy had been described as a “very good mother” and noted her anxiety about returning to work before medication was prescribed. The attorney also challenged why Clancy was not admitted to a postpartum program in Rhode Island, suggesting overmedication as a factor.
Judge William Sullivan denied Reddington’s request for a mistrial but reprimanded the prosecution for the religious remarks, instructing jurors to disregard them as “immaterial, irrelevant.” Reddington praised the judge’s instruction and expressed confidence that the jury would follow it.
Clancy, 36, has pleaded not guilty to three counts of first-degree murder for the deaths of her children in January 2023. Her defense maintains she suffered postpartum psychosis and was overmedicated, arguing she should not be held criminally responsible. Prosecutors contend the murders were pre-planned, and a conviction could result in life imprisonment without parole, while a finding of non-responsibility would lead to psychiatric hospitalization.