GREEN RIVER – A Rock Springs couple facing several felony charges including first-degree murder pleaded not guilty in District Court.
Jacob and Amanda Triplett were back in court recently as they made their initial appearance in a Third Judicial District Courtroom in Green River where they entered the plea. The two appeared before District Court Judge Nena James on Nov. 21. Bond remained at $1 million dollars.
On Nov. 4, Judge Craig Jones found there was enough evidence to move the case forward after a preliminary hearing for Amanda Triplett. Jacob Triplett waived his right to a preliminary hearing.
Jacob and Amanda Triplett each have been charged with first-degree murder, two counts of child abuse and one count of aggravated child abuse. The charges stem from the death of their 4-month-old twin daughter on Sept. 17
If convicted, the couple could face the death penalty or life in jail without the possibility of parole. For the aggravated child abuse, each face 25 years in jail and then each child abuse charge carries a maximum of 5 years in jail. Judge Jones explained to the couple individually, if convicted, they could face death or life in jail plus 35 years. There are also $40,000 in fines that the couple could be ordered to pay.
According to charging documents, first responders were called to Moccasin Lane in Rock Springs in response to a child not breathing. The child was transported to Salt Lake where she passed away. Documents alleged the 4-month-old showed signs of abuse and malnutrition.
Documents also alleged the couple’s other children, the other 4-month-old twin, a 2-year-old and 4-year-old also showed signs of abuse and malnutrition.
