HARRISBURG, PA – A woman involved in a home birth resulting in an infant’s death in Sullivan County has been sentenced to 8 ⅔ to 17 ⅓ years in prison. Attorney General Michelle Henry announced the sentencing of Brigitte Meckes, 49, following her conviction by a jury for involuntary manslaughter, aggravated assault, and other charges related to the 2022 incident.
Meckes, who lacked a medical license, acted as a midwife during the birth but failed to obtain medical assistance for the distressed infant. She and the mother attempted alternative treatments instead, with the baby dying two days later. Sullivan County President Judge Russel Shurtleff remarked on Meckes’ lack of remorse during sentencing.
Evidence presented by the Office of Attorney General indicated that Meckes and the baby’s parents, Drew and Amy Hoenigke, were aware of the infant’s critical condition. Text messages showed their acknowledgment of the baby’s deteriorating state, yet they did not contact emergency services.
In July, Meckes, of New York, was found guilty of several charges including involuntary manslaughter.