Lindsay E. Johnson was set for a jury trial in September — her second on charges related to allegations that she seriously injured a child in her care.
Instead, she pleaded no contest to one count of third-degree felony aggravated child abuse July 10. Third District Judge Richard Mrazik sentenced her the same day to one year in jail and three years of probation.
Since Johnson already spent more than a year behind bars, she won't serve any more time unless she violates the terms of her probation.
As part of the deal with Summit County prosecutors, two other felony counts were dismissed. The plea also bars Johnson from working in the childcare industry or any job where she might supervise children during her probation.
Summit County originally charged Johnson with eight second-degree felony counts of aggravated child abuse in late 2024.
The Herriman babysitter was accused of injuring a six-week-old Summit County child she cared for overnight in November 2024.
According to court papers, doctors at Primary Children’s Hospital found the infant’s injuries were consistent with shaken baby syndrome. They were not fatal.
In May, a jury acquitted Johnson of five counts but split on the rest, resulting in a mistrial.
By pleading “no contest” Johnson is accepting punishment without admitting guilt.
As part of the plea, a protective order also prohibits Johnson from contacting the family of the injured child. She will be on the child abuse offenders registry for one decade after completing probation.
And while on probation, Johnson cannot commit any new crimes. Mrazik could send her to prison for up to five years if she fails to comply.
A restitution hearing is scheduled for Sept. 25.
