Caregiver pleads not guilty in death of toddler

WATERTOWN, S.D. – A Watertown woman has pleaded not guilty to felony charges in the death of a toddler who was in her care.

A Codington County grand jury indicted 30-year-old Amanda Walder on one count of second-degree murder, two counts of first-degree manslaughter and aggravated battery.

First responders answered a call about an unconscious child at Walder’s unlicensed day care July 14.  The 16-month-old victim, Liam Koistinen, died later that day from trauma that resulted in a brain bleed and swelling.

A judge on Wednesday adjusted Walder’s bond to $50,000 cash from $100,000.  Trial is set to begin Nov. 19.