Elizabeth Holmes Cites Newly Born Child in Bid to Delay 11-Year Prison Sentence

Elizabeth Holmes, the former CEO of Theranos, is citing her recently born child as a reason to delay the start of her 11-year prison sentence. Holmes, 38, was pregnant at the time of her November 18th sentencing in a San Jose, California courtroom. A jury had convicted her on four felony counts of fraud for duping investors about the capabilities of her failed company’s blood-testing technology.

The birth of Holmes’ second child was confirmed in court documents filed last week in advance of a March 17th hearing about her bid to remain free during an appeals process. Her lawyers are arguing that the birth of her child should be taken into consideration when deciding whether or not to grant her request.

The prosecution is opposing Holmes’ request, arguing that her appeal is unlikely to be successful and that she should begin her sentence as soon as possible. They also cite the fact that Holmes has the resources to provide for her child while in prison.

The judge presiding over the case has yet to make a decision on Holmes’ request. It is unclear when the judge will make a ruling, but the hearing is scheduled for March 17th. If the judge denies her request, Holmes will have to begin her sentence immediately.