‘New Age’ Influence Cited in Rebirth Case
- Share via
A psychotherapist charged in the death of a 10-year-old girl during a “rebirthing” therapy session testified that she learned the technique from “New Age” people.
“New Age?” prosecutor Steve Jensen asked during a heated cross-examination. “Wasn’t it done with snorkels and hot tubs?”
“No,” replied Connell Watkins, who testified for a third day.
Watkins, 54, and Julie Ponder, 40, are charged with reckless child abuse resulting in the death of Candace Newmaker. If convicted, each could face 16 to 48 years in prison.
Candace was wrapped in a flannel sheet to simulate a womb while adults pushed against her with pillows for 70 minutes.
Sign up for Essential California
The most important California stories and recommendations in your inbox every morning.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
