Baton Rouge mother on trial for alleged abuse that led to Nevaeh Allen's death

Lanaya Cardwell faces charges of second-degree cruelty to a juvenile following the disappearance and death of her 2-year-old daughter.

Published on Feb. 5, 2026

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The trial of Lanaya Cardwell, a mother charged in connection with the death of her 2-year-old daughter Nevaeh Allen, continued on Thursday in Baton Rouge. The state alleges that Cardwell caused severe abdominal injuries to the toddler on the morning she went missing, leading to her disappearance and death. Witnesses, including an FBI agent and local police officers, provided testimony regarding the days surrounding the child's disappearance and Cardwell's history of agitation.

Why it matters

This high-profile case has drawn significant attention in the Baton Rouge community, raising concerns about child abuse and the need for stronger protections for vulnerable children. The outcome of the trial could have broader implications for how similar cases are handled in the future.

The details

During the trial, a young witness provided testimony using a doll to demonstrate how Cardwell allegedly struck Nevaeh in the abdomen after the toddler ruined one of Cardwell's contact lenses. Surveillance footage also showed Nevaeh following Cardwell around a store the morning before the child disappeared. The state alleges that Cardwell's actions caused severe injuries to the girl's abdomen on the day she vanished, leading to her death.

  • The trial of Lanaya Cardwell began on February 6, 2026.
  • Nevaeh Allen went missing on the day Cardwell allegedly struck her in the abdomen.

The players

Lanaya Cardwell

The mother of Nevaeh Allen, who is on trial for second-degree cruelty to a juvenile charges in connection with her daughter's death.

Nevaeh Allen

The 2-year-old daughter of Lanaya Cardwell, who died after allegedly being abused by her mother.

Philip Gardner

Cardwell's former partner, who was watching Nevaeh the day she went missing and is currently serving a life sentence for second-degree murder and obstruction of justice.

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What they’re saying

“We must hold those responsible for the abuse and neglect of children accountable to the fullest extent of the law.”

— Saundra Watts, Corporal, Baton Rouge Police Department (Louisiana First)

What’s next

The trial is expected to continue in the morning, with more testimony and evidence presented to the jury.

The takeaway

This tragic case highlights the urgent need for stronger child protection measures and better support systems for families to prevent abuse and ensure the safety of vulnerable children in the community.