Coplen-Anderson was first accused with first-degree murder, using a deadly weapon, and child maltreatment
That resulted in death. She accepted a plea bargain in August 2024 and entered a no contest plea to second-degree murder. The other charges were withdrawn.
Todd Lancaster, her lawyer, informed the court that Coplen-Anderson had experienced sexual abuse and
Battled mental health conditions related to the trauma, such as significant depression and post-traumatic stress disorder. Additionally, he disclosed that she was 15
When she became pregnant and the father of the child was 19—an age difference that, in accordance with Nebraska law, qualifies the connection as statutory sexual assault.
Lancaster went on to say that throughout her pregnancy, no adults offered assistance or intervention.The punishment for second-degree murder in Nebraska ranges from 20 years to life in prison.
