Apple Valley Woman Pleads Not Guilty To Murder Of Toddler Who Died After Eating Chili Powder

APPLE VALLEY (CBSLA.com) — A 21-year-old woman pleaded not guilty to murder charges Thursday in the death of a toddler who died after eating chili powder.

Amanda Sorensen was formally charged Wednesday in the death of 2-year-old Joileen G., according to the Riverside County District Attorney's Office.

San Bernardino County Sheriff's officials received a call Sunday about a child suffering a seizure after ingesting the spice at a home in the 20000 block of Cayunga Road in Apple Valley.

The child was taken to a local hospital where she was pronounced dead, officials said.

Following an initial investigation, Sorensen, the girlfriend of the child's father, was arrested on Jan. 7., officials said.

"Its the first time I've seen a case of this nature," Kathy Didonato, Deputy District Attorney, said.

An autopsy is pending to determine exactly how the child died.

Sorenesen's bail was set at $1 million. She will return to court on Jan. 23 for a preliminary hearing.