In a case that has gripped the community for nearly six years, 41-year-old Karima Jiwani has been sentenced to 15 years in prison, followed by 15 years of probation, for abandoning her newborn daughter in a plastic bag in the woods. The infant, known as “Baby India,” was miraculously discovered alive in June 2019 and has since been thriving in a loving adoptive home.
Discovery of Baby India
On the evening of June 6, 2019, a family residing near Daves Creek Road in Forsyth County heard what they initially thought was an animal’s cry emanating from the nearby woods. Upon investigation, they were shocked to find a newborn baby girl, her umbilical cord still attached, wrapped tightly in a plastic bag. The infant was immediately taken to a local hospital, where medical staff determined she was in good health despite the circumstances.
The Investigation and Arrest
The Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office launched an extensive investigation to identify the mother. Despite initial challenges, advancements in forensic genetic genealogy led investigators to the baby’s father in late 2022. This breakthrough eventually directed them to Jiwani, who was arrested in May 2023. Authorities revealed that Jiwani had a history of concealed pregnancies and had gone to great lengths to hide her pregnancy with Baby India.
Legal Proceedings
On February 13, 2025, Jiwani entered a negotiated guilty plea to charges of criminal attempt to commit murder and first-degree cruelty to children. Forsyth County District Attorney Penny Penn stated, “She intended for this baby to die.” The court sentenced Jiwani to a total of 30 years, with the first 15 years to be served in prison and the remaining 15 years on probation.
Georgia’s Safe Haven Law
This tragic incident has brought renewed attention to Georgia’s Safe Haven Law, officially known as the Safe Place for Newborns Act of 2002. Under this law, mothers can legally leave their newborns, up to 30 days old, with an employee or volunteer at any medical facility, fire station, or police station without facing criminal charges. The law aims to provide a safe alternative for mothers in crisis, ensuring the well-being of the child. Unfortunately, cases like Baby India’s highlight that not all mothers are aware of or choose to utilize this provision.
Current Status of Baby India
Now approaching her sixth birthday, Baby India has been adopted and is reportedly thriving in a nurturing environment. District Attorney Penn remarked, “At the end of the day, it is a story that starts out very dark and awful. But in this case, it did have a happy ending.”
Conclusion
The sentencing of Karima Jiwani brings a measure of closure to a case that has deeply affected the Forsyth County community. It also underscores the importance of awareness and utilization of laws designed to protect vulnerable infants. As Baby India continues to flourish, her story serves as a poignant reminder of both the fragility and resilience of life.
(Source : newsbreak.com)
