State Police say a Hardy County woman is charged with murder after her baby, born on May 1st, was discovered dead hidden in a remote section of her family's property. Thirty-four year old Vicki Hawks of Moorefield is lodged in the Potomac Highlands Regional Jail. Troopers say it was Hawks' mother who came to the State Police Detachment to report the shocking discovery.
"Of course the reaction was shocked," Trooper Charles Kessell told MetroNews Friday. "The discovery was based upon some conversations she had with friends and other family members."
Kessell says the remains of the baby were discovered in a trash bag and placed against an out-building on the family's property along Jenkins Run in Hardy County. "Through statements and family statements revealed the suspect was indeed pregnant and delivered the baby on May 1st," said Kessell. "The baby was born alive and I'm calling it an intentional death at this point."
Kessell wouldn't reveal the cause of the child's death. He also would not reveal much about the statement given to troopers by Hawks, other than to say she confessed to having a role in the baby's death.
Kessell says nobody he's talked to was aware Hawks had even given birth until the infant’s body was discovered. He says Hawks did not go to the hospital, but would not reveal the reasons she failed to seek medical attention.
"There's just her indications and confessions to involvement in the child's death," said Kessell. Hawks is held without bond. A preliminary hearing will be scheduled.