Mia Bailey, 30, has made a request to skip her sentencing hearing related to the murders of her parents. This decision comes after pleading guilty and mentally ill to two counts of aggravated murder and one count of aggravated assault. The sentencing is scheduled for Friday, July 12, 2024, in Fifth District Court.
Mia Bailey’s Concerns for Mental Health
Bailey’s attorney expressed fear that attending the hearing could trigger a mental breakdown. In a court filing, Bailey indicated that her presence might lead to inappropriate outbursts, which could negatively influence her sentencing outcome.
Plea Agreement Details
In June 2024, Bailey admitted to intentionally shooting her parents, Gail and Joseph Bailey, at their home in Washington City. Gail, aged 69, and Joseph, aged 70, were killed during the incident. Bailey also attempted to shoot her brother, identified as C.B.
Sentencing Proceedings and Implications
- Bailey faces a sentence of 25 years to life for each murder charge.
- She could receive up to five years for the aggravated assault charge.
- The judge, Keith Barnes, must determine whether sentences will be served concurrently or consecutively.
According to reports prepared by Adult Probation and Parole, which will not be disclosed to the public, Bailey’s attorney noted a history of meltdowns in stressful situations. Bailey has requested to be represented by her attorney at the sentencing, without her physical presence in the courtroom.
Events Leading to the Arrest
The tragic event unfolded on June 18, 2024, when C.B. fled to a neighbor’s house to call 911 after hearing gunshots. Witness accounts revealed a conflict prior to the incident, where Bailey was told to leave the family home. She allegedly stated she went with the intent to kill her parents and expressed a lack of remorse for her actions.
Legal Context
While aggravated murder carries a potential death penalty, Washington County prosecutors chose not to pursue that route early in the case. Bailey also faces separate charges of assaulting staff members at Purgatory Correctional Facility, where she has been held since her arrest.
The outcome of the sentencing hearing on July 12 could significantly impact Bailey’s future, as the state’s parole board holds the discretion over the duration of her incarceration.
