A Calgary mother accused in the death of her developmentally disabled daughter is facing a more serious charge, according to Alberta Justice.
Patricia Couture, 69, was originally charged with failing to provide the necessaries of life in the death of Melissa Couture. She now faces criminal negligence causing death.
The maximum sentence for failing to provide necessaries of life is five years; the maximum penalty for criminal negligence causing death is imprisonment for life.
READ MORE: Calgary woman charged with death of daughter released on bail
Melissa, 38, was found dead in a home in the 0 to 100 block of Woodridge Close S.W. on April 26.
Melissa suffered from chronic medial issues, and police said at the time they believed she did not receive the medical attention she needed while under the care of her mother.
The case is set to return to court next week.
READ MORE: Calgary mother charged in connection with the death of disabled daughter
Watch below (April 27): A 68-year-old woman has been charged in the death of her developmentally disabled daughter who suffered from chronic medical issues. Nancy Hixt reports.