Wharton Mother Indicted in Child’s Death

A Wharton mother is facing capital murder charges after the death of her 2-year-old daughter in April. Jasmine Latson, 21, was indicted by a Wharton County grand jury following an investigation that began when Zayla Laitkep died at OakBend Medical Center. The child had breathing issues, but an autopsy later revealed signs of abuse. Police, assisted by Texas Rangers, gathered evidence linking Latson to the child’s injuries. She surrendered to authorities on June 6 and was released the same day on a $1 million bond. She faces life in prison if convicted.