MERIDIAN, Miss. — A Mississippi woman has been charged with capital murder and child neglect after police say she led them to a house basement where they found what could be the remains of a 5-year-old child who had been missing for months.
Celeste Louise Smith, 35, of Meridian, made an initial appearance Thursday in Meridian city court and her bond was set at $250,000, the Meridian Star reported. A preliminary hearing is scheduled on Monday. It wasn't clear whether she is represented by an attorney.
Meridian Police Chief Benny Dubose told WTOK-TV the possible remains were found Wednesday, wrapped in garbage bags that were taped shut. The unopened bags were sent to the state crime lab.
Dubose said a woman told police last week that her 5-year-old son with special needs, Jakie Toole, had been missing since April. The chief said officers interviewed Smith, a family friend who had once taken care of the boy and one of his siblings. Dubose said Smith led officers first to a wooded area and then to the home where the remains were found.
