The prosecutor in Lindsay Clancy’s case believes her defense failed to prove a “break with reality” as the jury begins deliberations after closing arguments on Thursday. Clancy, 36, faces three counts of first-degree murder for the deaths of her children—Cora, Dawson, and Callan—who were strangled at their home in January 2023.

Her defense attorney claims Clancy was experiencing postpartum psychosis when she killed her children, a claim disputed by prosecutors. Susan Smith, a South Carolina mother, was similarly convicted of killing her two sons in 1994, partly because of depression, and received a life sentence.

Rep. Tommy Pope, who prosecuted Smith, stated Clancy did not prove a break from reality, noting, “She ordered dinner, sent her husband away, and dialed the phone. Was it a break from reality or a deliberate crime?” Pope sees a lack of motive in Clancy’s case compared to Smith’s.

FBI Forensic Psychiatrist Gregory Saathoff testified about financial pressure as a stressor in Clancy’s life, suggesting it influenced her actions. Saathoff noted Clancy felt she couldn’t work or support her family, feeling like a burden. He also confirmed severe insomnia can lead to psychosis.

Defense Attorney Kevin Reddington questioned Saathoff’s terrorism expertise, highlighting sleep deprivation as torture, which Saathoff acknowledged. Reddington argued for Clancy’s psychosis due to insomnia.