A New Orleans mother facing charges in connection with the death of her nonverbal son had a court hearing Tuesday, where it was announced she was seeking visitation with her other children.
Bryan Vasquez’s mother did not appear in court Tuesday because she was not transported from jail to the courthouse, according to the Orleans Parish District Attorney’s Office.
A spokesperson for the DA’s office said no specific reason was provided for why Hilda Vasquez was not brought from the Plaquemines Parish jail, where she is being held.
Tuesday’s hearing was expected to focus on Bryan’s history with the Louisiana Department of Children & Family Services.
Records show Vasquez’s attorney is seeking to keep key DCFS records out of open court. Her attorney also said the defense is still waiting on outstanding 911 calls.
In court, prosecutors said they have a “significant amount of records” tied to Bryan’s case and argued the abuse investigated by DCFS is “directly connected.”
WDSU Investigates uncovered records detailing allegations of abuse involving Bryan, including scratches, bruising, a severe burn on his thigh, repeated instances of being sent to school in urine-soaked clothing, feces under his fingernails and reports that he expelled tapeworms at school on two occasions.
Court records show Vasquez’s attorney argued that while there are limited exceptions to the confidentiality of DCFS records, “none of them apply here.”
Bryan’s body was found in a lagoon last year after authorities said it had been severed by alligators. Following his death, Vasquez is accused of manslaughter and other charges.
The Orleans Parish Public Defenders’ Office, which represents Vasquez, told WDSU Investigates: “Thanks for reaching out, but as policy, we do not comment on open, pending cases.”
Vasquez has pleaded not guilty. Her next hearing is scheduled for this month.
District Attorney Jason Williams issued the following statement in May:
“Our Special Victims Unit is fully committed to seeking justice for Bryan and will pursue this case through to its conclusion. Cases involving the abuse and neglect of children inside their own homes must become a greater priority in this state. Meaningful early intervention and stronger systemic safeguards are critical if we are serious about preventing these tragedies and protecting children’s lives.”
READ MORE:Bryan Vasquez mother seeks visitation with her other children
