Delmont mom rejects torture claim in adopted son's death

A Delmont mother charged in connection with the death of her 5-year-old adopted son last year “categorically denies” allegations she caused the boy’s fatal injuries, her defense lawyer said after a court appearance Tuesday.

Defense attorney Adam Gorzelsky said the prosecution’s case against Lauren Maloberti is based on false assumptions.

“It wasn’t murder. Perhaps it was an accident or perhaps it was something else. She was well known in the community for taking care of her children and other children. It’s a stretch,” Gorzelsky said of the prosecution’s allegations the boy was tortured.

Maloberti, 35, is charged with first-degree murder, aggravated assault, child endangerment and conspiracy related to the Feb. 7, 2023, death of her son, Landon. She adopted the child in 2019, police said.

Prosecutors claim she and her husband, Jacob Maloberti, 34, physically and emotionally abused the child and failed to get him proper medical attention for his injuries. Authorities claimed the child had dozens of bruises on his head, face, arms, legs, back and abdomen, multiple lacerations and massive brain bleeding and swelling.

Jacob Maloberti faces similar charges. Both are in jail without bond as they await trial.

Gorzelsky told Westmoreland County Common Pleas Judge Scott Mears he was not ready for trial and expects to receive and review medical reports within a month to help craft the defense theory of the case.

Jacob Maloberti is scheduled to appear before Mears this week to update the judge on his trial preparations.