Another day in court for Athena Brownfield's caretaker
ANADARKO, Okla. (KFOR) - Alyisa Adams was back in the courtroom on Wednesday afternoon. She's accused in the death of 4-year-old Athena Brownfield who was missing for a week before her remains were found in January of 2023. Alysia was Athena's caretaker.
Her time in court on Wednesday was a short five minutes. Alysia stood before the judge raising her right hand.
The judge read off her charges as Alysia acknowledged them.
She accused of first degree murder, child neglect, and obstruction of an officer. Alysia responded to the judge and said, "yes."
Alysia also said she's not guilty.
In February, District Attorney Jason Hicks filed paperwork seeking the death penalty for Alysia marking Athena Brownfield's death "heinous, atrocious or cruel."
The medical examiner report showed Athena died from acute pneumonia complicating malnutrition.
In December, Alysia got a murder charge to her name. Prosecutors said she lied about her husband beating Athena to death.
An attorney not involved with the case spoke to News 4 last month about the DA seeking the death penalty.
"The prosecution has to prove to the jury beyond a reasonable doubt that the victim's death was heinous, atrocious and cruel before the defendant can be given the death penalty," said Ed Blau, a legal expert.
Blau said the jury will look at Alysia's mental and physical background.
"If the mitigating circumstances outweigh the aggravating circumstances, the jury cannot give the death penalty," said Blau.
Alysia Adams said she's not guilty. Her next day in court will be August 14.
Athena brownfield's biological mom is set to be in court this Friday.