Palm Coast Student Indicted in Newborn's Death After Disturbing Evidence Surfaces

A 20-year-old college student from Palm Coast, Florida, was indicted Monday on charges of first-degree premeditated murder, aggravated child abuse, and failure to report a death with intent to conceal evidence in the March death of her newborn daughter, according to the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office and court records.

Authorities allege Anne Demegillo gave birth in the early hours of March 5 at her residence, where she reportedly watched as her infant daughter cried and drowned in a toilet. Investigators said after the incident, Demegillo attended a college class and participated in a campus play before returning home to bury the child in a shallow backyard grave.

According to police affidavits, the case came to light after Demegillo messaged a friend about the events, prompting that individual to contact law enforcement. Demegillo was initially arrested on March 6 for aggravated manslaughter of a child and was released on bail about a week later after her parents posted their home as collateral, court and jail records confirm. She remains in custody without bail following this week’s grand jury indictment.

The investigation uncovered images of Casey Anthony—whose high-profile trial related to the death of her own child drew national attention in 2011—on Demegillo’s phone. Authorities also reported that Demegillo had searched topics such as “newborn premature babies” and “foods to decrease fertility.” Sheriff Rick Staly described the case as deeply disturbing, emphasizing the profound tragedy of the alleged actions.

Demegillo’s arraignment is scheduled for April 21. Her defense attorneys have not responded to requests for comment. The Flagler County Sheriff’s Office continues its investigation.