A British Au Pair Convicted of Murdering an 8-Month-Old Walks Free from Prison Days Later Due to Shocking Twist

In 1997, a case captured national attention when a young au pair faced charges following the death of an 8-month-old in her care. Initially convicted of murder, a surprising judicial decision allowed her to leave prison shortly thereafter.

The case involved Louise Woodward, a teenage au pair caring for 8-month-old Matthew Eappen and his older brother in Newton, Massachusetts. On February 4, 1997, Woodward called 911, reporting that Matthew was barely breathing. He was rushed to Boston Childrens Hospital, where doctors discovered a skull fracture, subdural hematoma, and retinal bleeding.

Woodward was arrested the next day and charged with first-degree murder. The trial divided public opinion: some believed she had deliberately harmed the child, while others were persuaded by her defense, which argued that the injuries may have been accidental or the result of pre-existing conditions. Medical experts for the defense cited older blood clots and a prior wrist fracture as evidence that some injuries occurred days before the emergency call. Woodward testified that she had only shaken the baby gently in an attempt to wake him after a nap and denied any abuse.

Despite her testimony, the jury found her guilty of second-degree murder on October 30, 1997, which carried a life sentence with the possibility of parole after 15 years. However, less than two weeks later, Judge Hiller Zobel overturned the verdict, reducing the charge to involuntary manslaughter and sentencing Woodward to the 279 days she had already spent in custody.

In a detailed 16-page opinion, Judge Zobel concluded that Woodwards actions stemmed from confusion and immaturity rather than intent to harm. He cited her frustration with the crying child and described her behavior as being a little rough under stressful circumstances, rather than malicious.

The decision sparked strong reactions. Matthews maternal grandmother expressed shock and disappointment, feeling that justice had not been fully served. Woodward, meanwhile, maintained her innocence in later interviews and continued her life, later working as a dance instructor, marrying, and starting a family.

The case remains a poignant example of how legal interpretation, youth, and intent can dramatically influence the outcome of high-profile criminal trials.

Author: Benjamin Carter