Charges Dropped For Texan Convicted In Baby Death

HOUSTON (AP) - Prosecutors have dismissed the remaining charges against a Houston day care provider sentenced to 80 years in prison for the fire death of a toddler she left alone. Harris County Assistant District Attorney Steve Baldassano on Friday told sources that Jessica Tata would not receive a longer sentence if she were tried in the deaths of more of the children who were in her care.

Four children died and three others were injured when a fire broke out at Tata's home day care after she left them alone to go shopping at a nearby Target. Tata was convicted of murder in the death of 16-month-old Elias Castillo. She was indicted on nine charges, including four counts of murder, but tried on only one.