WELLESLEY, MA — A Wellesley mother accused of killing her two young children has pleaded not guilty to two counts of first-degree murder and is being held without bail as the case moves through the Massachusetts court system.
The defendant, identified as 49-year-old Janette MacAusland, is accused of killing her children, 7-year-old Kai and 6-year-old Ella.
Authorities reportedly discovered the children dead inside their family’s Wellesley home on April 24, 2026, after responding to a welfare check.
MacAusland was subsequently arrested in Vermont following concerns about her welfare and the safety of the children.
During her arraignment, not-guilty pleas were entered on her behalf. Her defense attorney has indicated that a possible mental health defense is being investigated.
The judge ordered MacAusland held without bail while the criminal proceedings continue. Her next court appearance is scheduled for December 16.
The case remains ongoing. MacAusland is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.
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