Idaho Judge to Decide Who Pays Bill in Acquitted Baby Sitter Case

LEWISTON, Idaho (AP) — A northern Idaho judge is deciding who will pick up the latest bills for the trial of a baby sitter who was acquitted of murder in the death of a 2-year-old in her care.

The Lewiston Tribune reports a jury acquitted Natasha N. Hodges in April after a nine-day trial and three hours of deliberation. Defense witness Dr. David Posey testified Rylee Mingo died of a diseased pancreas, not as a result of Hodges hitting her in the stomach. Judge Jeff M. Brudie said in 2nd District Court on Wednesday that he was surprised Posey charged $6,500 per day.

Posey's $46,703 bill includes airfare, $4,000 in travel time, and two meals costing more than $80 each. Lawyers for the defense and prosecution agreed the court should decide payment. The county has paid over $186,000 related to the trial so far.