Photo: HeartMindJournal.org
- Nicole Virzi is at the center of a devastating criminal case.
- He is accused of inflicting fatal injuries on a newborn baby.
- Virzi was a Ph.D. student in clinical psychology.
Nicole Virzi, a 30-year-old Ph.D. student in clinical psychology at the SDSU/UC San Diego Joint Doctoral Program, is at the center of a devastating criminal case in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Accused of inflicting fatal injuries on a newborn baby, Virzi now faces the possibility of the death penalty.
Allegations Against Nicole Virzi
In June, while babysitting for a family friend, Virzi was entrusted with the care of infant twins, Leon and Ari Katz. During this period, a tragic incident occurred resulting in the death of six-and-a-half-week-old Leon and serious injuries to his twin brother. Virzi is charged with murder following Leon’s death, which was attributed to blunt-force trauma, including a severe skull fracture and multiple brain bleeds detected by a CT scan.
Defense & Claims
Virzi has pleaded not guilty, asserting that Leon’s injuries were accidental. She claims that while briefly stepping out of the room, Leon fell from his bouncer seat, which she reported to the police. Her attorney, David Shrager, has emphasized her innocence, stating, “Our client denies these allegations. She is a loving person and a friend to these people and would never harm anyone’s child, let alone theirs.”
Legal Proceedings & Potential Impact
The severity of the case has prompted the Allegheny District Attorney’s Office to seek capital punishment. This decision reflects the crime’s brutality and the trust Virzi betrayed as a “trusted family friend.” With no women currently on death row in Pennsylvania and Governor Josh Shapiro’s opposition to the death penalty, the case could influence future legal precedents.
Professional Background of Nicole Virzi
Nicole Virzi’s academic journey began at Northern Highlands Regional High School and continued at Pepperdine University, where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in 2017. She later pursued a Master’s degree at San Diego State University and accumulated extensive research experience, working with prestigious institutions including the University of Pennsylvania and UC San Diego Health.
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