'Faith Healing' Couple Expected To Appear In Court Today
By Tony Hanson
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - A preliminary hearing is scheduled for today for a Philadelphia faith healing couple charged with the murder of their son in April (see related story).
Authorities allege it is the second preventable death of child in the family.
Herbert and Catherine Schiable were on 10 years probation for involuntary manslaughter following the death of another son from illness in 2009 when, authorities say, they again chose prayer over medical care leading to the death of seven-month-old Brandon on April 18th from dehydration and bacterial pneumonia.
During today's hearing, the prosecution is expected to present the medical examiner's report and defendants' statements to police after the death in April.
The Schaibles, who belong to the First Century Gospel Church in Juniata Park, are in custody.
During an earlier bail hearing, the judge cited Herbert Schiable's alleged admission to police that they did not take Brandon to the doctor because it would have been a violation of their faith to do so.
