Jurors in Lindsay Clancy trial deadlocked but judge asks them to keep trying

Clancy is accused of strangling her kids – Cora, five, Dawson, three, and Callan, who was eight months – with fitness bands in their Massachusetts home in January 2023.

The defence argues that Clancy was experiencing postpartum psychosis – a severe mental health condition that can develop after childbirth – and that for this reason she should therefore not be held criminally responsible for the killings.

If she is found guilty of first-degree murder, the intentional and premeditated killing of another person, Clancy will face a mandatory life sentence in prison without the possibility of parole.

She could also be found guilty of a lesser charge, including second-degree murder – committed with malice or extreme recklessness, but without prior planning – or manslaughter – unintentionally killing “by wanton and reckless conduct”. In either of those instances, she would face time behind bars.

If Clancy is found not guilty by reason of insanity, she will not be set free – she would instead be sent to a psychiatric hospital where her status would be periodically reviewed. She could stay in hospital for the rest of her life.

If you are suffering distress or despair and need support, you could speak to a health professional, or an organisation that offers support. Details of help available in many countries can be found at Befrienders Worldwide: www.befrienders.org, external.

In the UK a list of organisations that can help is available at bbc.co.uk/actionline.