Watch CBS News

Man Pleads Guilty In Smothering Death Of Toddler

ELK RIVER, Minn. (AP) -- A 25-year-old man has pleaded guilty in Sherburne County to smothering his girlfriend's 16-month-old son.

Dennis Angell entered the plea to felony murder in the November death of the toddler at a home in Santiago Township. Angell initially told investigators the toddler started choking while in his care, but later admitted he put a pillow on the boy's face. A charge of first-degree manslaughter was dismissed as part of an agreement with prosecutors.

The St. Cloud Times says the Ramsey County medical examiner found the probable cause of death was asphyxiation due to smothering. Angell is being held without bail pending sentencing July 14.

(© Copyright 2011 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.