Illinois Woman Accused of Putting Baby in Toilet

(Belleville, Illinois) In February 2009, a 23-year-old area woman, Elyse Mamino, was charged with attempted first-degree murder after she was found allegedly trying to drown her newborn in a toilet in November 2008.

The baby, later named Victoria, was fished out of the toilet by a Columbia police officer who responded to a 911 call, noticed her move, then began resuscitation efforts. Victoria was hospitalized for two weeks before the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services released her back to Mamino.

The resulting investigation led to the discovery of another infant's remains Feb. 26 in a dresser in the basement of Mamino's duplex at 5 N. 42nd St. in Belleville.

The juvenile court record stated Mamino gave birth to that baby in September 2007. The cause of the baby's death is listed as unknown.

After the remains were found, DCFS requested protective custody of Victoria.

Yesterday, a psychologist submitted a sealed report to the Monroe County State's Attorney Kris Reitz indicating that Mamino is fit to stand trial. She remains in custody at the Monroe County Jail in lieu of $250,000 bail.