2 MOTHERS PLEAD GUILTY IN METHAMPHETAMINE CHARGES

CROSSVILLE, Tenn. - Two Cumberland County women whose babies tested
positive for methamphetamine shortly after birth have pleaded guilty
to child abuse charges and have each been sentenced to 12 years in
prison.

Assistant District Attorney General Gary McKenzie said he was unaware
of such a case being successfully prosecuted in the state.

Jessica Richards, 20, charged with manufacturing methamphetamine and
aggravated child abuse, gave birth to a baby boy Jan. 21, 2002, at
Cumberland Medical Center, authorities said. Richards also pleaded
guilty to the manufacturing methamphetamine charge and received an
additional six-year sentence and a $2,000 fine.

Jennifer Lynne Horine, 29, charged with two counts of aggravated child
abuse, pleaded guilty to a charge of attempted child abuse. Her child
was born July 10, 2002.