The former Batavia mother who is accused of leaving her two young children home alone before a fire broke out, killing both little boys, made her first court appearance today on charges of endangering the welfare of a child; she entered a not guilty plea.
Public Defender Jerry Ader told Justice Micheal Cleveland that he had not yet been able to meet with his client and asked that her case be continued to 10:30 a.m., Nov. 21.
Ace made no statement during the short proceeding.
Investigators have not said where they believe Ace went the night of May 20, allegedly leaving her 2-year-old twins, Micah and Michael Gard, unsupervised at 8157 State Street Road, Batavia.
The children were inside their bedroom at the residence at the time. The investigation determined that the fire originated either inside of, or in close proximity to, the children's bedroom. The cause of the fire remains undetermined.
Ace, out of jail on her own recognizance, was given revised release orders. Cleveland ordered her to report for supervision to Genesee Justice.
ADA Melissa Cianfrini asked Cleveland to order Ace undergo alcohol evaluation, but Cleveland's order specified only that she not consume alcohol or non-prescription drugs while the case is pending.
Ace appeared in court accompanied by several friends and family members.
