Home and natural childbirths have always existed. But precautions should always be exercised, as terrible accidents may happen when births occur without the presence of licensed professionals.

On January 20, 2022, Pennsylvania State troopers went to Amy and Drew Hoenigke’s home in Cherry Township, Sullivan County. Snow was all around and the front porch entrance was full of items. Firewood, which was the main source of heat for the family’s home, was also found nearby. Upon entering, they saw a typical family scene; Amy, 31 and Drew, 34 were on the couch and their daughter, two-year-old Hettie, was sitting facing a laptop. 

No one would have thought that their newborn, Mahko, who was at peace in his wooden bassinet, had been dead for three days.

Police reported that the baby’s body had already shown signs of decomposition. They were also able to find a box, which Drew apparently constructed to serve as his son’s coffin.

The parents failed to bury the child immediately due to extreme weather conditions.

Mahko, who was born on January 14, was delivered with the assistance of the Hoenigke’s friend, 47-year-old Birgitte Meckes. Meckes was said to have attended and passed nursing school but was an unlicensed medical practitioner. According to the couple, the infant survived for two days and then had problems breathing. They attempted to save the baby’s life through the use of natural products such as herbs and teas. They did not seek outside help when the newborn didn’t respond to the interventions and turned blue. 

The Hoenigkes failed to tell the police about what happened because of fear that they might be forced to give up their daughter. It was later learned that Hettie’s birth hadn’t been registered, thus, she remains what authorities call “undocumented.” The child is also unvaccinated. The couple said that they were afraid of modern medicine.

Attorney General Josh Shapiro said that the adults did not fulfill their responsibility towards their daughter. He also said that the infant’s death could have been prevented if he was given medical care immediately. 

The father, when asked about the incident, said that he still believes in natural birthing but caution should always be exercised since “one thing going wrong can possibly cost you your family, your freedom, and your future.” He said that parents should seek medical help should their child need it.

On December 19, the Hoenigkes and the friend, Meckes were charged with involuntary manslaughter, aggravated assault, recklessly endangering another person, and endangering the welfare of children.

Amy Hoenigke told investigators that the couple and their daughter “do not live a conventional lifestyle and choose not to pay attention to things like time frames or even keep track of the days.”

Now they are keeping track of time in a prison cell, and social media is alive with support as well as criticism about the couple’s “free” lifestyle.