Vermont Woman Seeks New Trial in Infant Drugging Case

Montpelier, Vermont — A Vermont woman convicted of manslaughter and child cruelty is scheduled to appear in court Wednesday as she seeks a new trial following the tragic death of an infant in her care.

Stacey Vaillancourt, 39, was convicted in 2023 for drugging 6-month-old Harper Rose Briar with over-the-counter liquid diphenhydramine. This occurred in 2019 at her home daycare, where she allegedly administered the drug to induce sleep. Harper was discovered unresponsive shortly after and later died at a nearby hospital.

During the trial, prosecutors presented evidence that the dosage administered to the infant was fatal. Vaillancourt was subsequently sentenced to three to 10 years in prison for both manslaughter and child cruelty, with her sentences running concurrently.

Vaillancourt’s attorney has filed court documents arguing that the evidence presented during the trial was insufficient to prove that Vaillancourt had the intent to harm, deeming the conviction unjust. The defense is now asking the Vermont Supreme Court to reverse the convictions and dismiss the case entirely.

The Vermont Supreme Court is set to hear arguments regarding the appeal at 9 a.m. Wednesday. As this case unfolds, local news outlets, including NBC5, will provide updates throughout the day.