PITTSBURGH, PA — A Pittsburgh-area woman has been convicted in connection with the death of her adoptive son.
After a two-week trial, Lauren Maloberti, 36, was found guilty by a Westmoreland County jury of third-degree murder, two counts of aggravated assault, endangering the welfare of children and conspiracy.
Maloberti was arrested in July of 2023 and charged with criminal homicide in the death of her adoptive son, Landon Maloberti, 5, of Delmont.
Maloberti's husband, Jacob Maloberti is also facing criminal homicide charges in relation to the case and is awaiting court proceedings.
Prosecutors presented more than 45 witnesses over nine days
including pediatric child abuse experts, forensic pathologists, and multiple medical professionals.
Westmoreland County Detectives and Delmont Police initiated the investigation into suspicions of severe child abuse in January of 2023 after Landon was brought into AHN Hempfield unresponsive.
Landon ultimately died a week later due to multiple blunt force injuries including a catastrophic brain injury. Experts testified that Landon had more than 100 injuries to his body at the time of his death and in various stages of healing.
A pediatric child abuse expert classified Landon’s abuse as child torture and medical neglect.
Prosecutors contended Lauren Maloberti inflicted the injuries on Landon and delayed seeking medical treatment for those injuries until he ultimately died.
Westmoreland County District Attorney Nicole Zacarelli said of the case: “From the onset of this investigation, it has been a sensitive and complex case to navigate. I am incredibly impressed with our team of prosecutors and detectives who worked relentlessly to investigate and present this case with care and compassion.
"Landon deserved justice and I believe we accomplished that."
Sign up for free local newsletters and alerts for the
Pittsburgh, PA Patch
Patch.com is the nationwide leader in hyperlocal news.
Visit Patch.com to find your town today.