Miller added that he later discovered the girl was dead and drove to a wooded area in Starke County to dispose of the body.
Photo: Mario Tama / Getty Images
Justin Miller claimed responsibility for the disturbing crime that took the life of little Mercedes Lin as part of a settlement with prosecutors.
If the judge accepts the agreement, could face up to 45 years behind bars.
During a court appearance Monday, Miller said he was caring for the baby, a relative’s daughter, at his girlfriend’s apartment last August when he hit the crying baby a “couple of times”.
Said he was high on synthetic marijuana at the time.
Miller added that he later discovered the girl was dead and drove to a wooded area in Starke County to dispose of the body.
Mercedes’ body was found in a forest on August 18.
The baby’s grandmother, Angela Owens, criticized the plea deal.
“I feel like he needs more time,” Owens told ABC 57, referring to the possible 45-year sentence.
“I mean, an innocent child. My innocent grandson. How could you do that and wait, okay, you turned 45 and you went out and you’re fine? ”Owens noted.