Trump says Lindsay Clancy case belongs to state courts, not federal pardon
Donald Trump said he will not intervene in Massachusetts mother Lindsay Clancy's murder case, calling it a state matter.
Donald Trump responded to inquiries about granting a pardon to Lindsay Clancy, a 36-year-old former nurse charged with killing her three young children in Massachusetts. He called the tragedy "very sad" but insisted the matter falls under state jurisdiction, not federal authority. Trump added that no outcome would constitute a victory and highlighted the seriousness of the case, noting the children’s deaths.
He also complimented Clancy's attorney, Kevin Reddington, describing him as a capable lawyer. Trump suggested that the legal dispute should be settled by the local courts and prosecutors. The comment came after Reddington publicly requested a presidential pardon for his client.
Why it matters
The remarks clarify that the president will not use his pardon power in a high-profile state murder case.
How this story developed
- Aug 19 Defense psychologist argues Lindsay Clancy lacked criminal intent due to postpartum psychosis
- Aug 21 A defense psychologist testified about Clancy’s bipolar disorder and postpartum psychosis.
- Aug 24 Prosecutors presented rebuttal witnesses after the defense rested.
- Aug 26 Prosecution called Dr. Avram Mack as a rebuttal witness who testified Clancy understood the wrongfulness of her conduct.
- Aug 29 Jurors convened Thursday to decide whether Clancy bears criminal liability.
- Aug 31 A wave of female supporters has gathered outside the Massachusetts courthouse for Lindsay Clancy’s trial, prompting the author to argue that this sympathy undermines historic arguments for women’s voting rights.
- Aug 31 Jury began third day of deliberations in the case
- Aug 31 Jury resumed deliberations on Tuesday after failing to reach a verdict on Monday.
- Sep 2 Dawn Light was arrested outside the courthouse and charged with intimidation of a witness, juror, or person providing information.
- Sep 2 A 2-year-old boy died after police responded to a Frankfort, Illinois residence where his mother was found with self-inflicted injuries, prompting a domestic homicide inquiry.
- Sep 3 The jury reported a second deadlock in the trial.
- Sep 4 Defense counsel requested dismissal of a holdout juror after the foreperson’s note indicated the juror was not following the judge’s guidance on reasonable doubt.
- Sep 8 Walsh has been formally charged with first‑degree murder.
- Sep 13 Women’s groups have staged protests outside the Massachusetts courthouse as the trial continues.
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