KSOM/KS95 Radio Exclusive Story
(Council Bluffs) Courtroom D at the Pottawattamie County Courthouse was again packed full of people for the fourth day of testimony in the State vs. Alison Dorsey Trial. Dorsey is on trial for the death of Luka Hodges while at her daycare on October 7, 2019. The trial is being heard for a second time because of a mistrial (deadlocked jury) in the fall of 2021. The case was moved to Pottawattamie County on a request for a change of venue due to the case’s publicity.
The defense called Pathologist Dr. Douglas Smith, who testified for three hours via Zoom on Friday morning. He is involved in the scientific studies of anatomic diagnostic interpretation of autopsies and Biopsies. He also reviewed Luka’s case. He noted the unusual length of time it took to administer CPR.
Based on his studies of iron staining in the brain method and his expert opinion, Dr. Smith stated Luka’s subdural hematoma occurred before October 7.
During cross-examination, Prosecutor Monty Platz questioned why the National Association of Medical Examiners, the central organization for medical examiners in the United States, does not endorse his scientific methods.
Dr. Smith replied Iron Stains had been used for over 100 years.
On Friday afternoon, Alison Dorsey took the stand. Dorsey began her private daycare service in 2002, stating she had done a lot of babysitting, and loved kids, so she opened her private daycare in Massena. She stated most of the children came from families in Massena and some from neighboring Anita. Over the years, Dorsey says she has taken care of around 120 children, many of whom come back to visit with her to this day.
Dorsey stated that on the morning of October 7, ten children were at the daycare, seven over the age of one. Luka, his twin, and older brother Carver arrived at the daycare. Dorsey was getting the preschoolers on the bus, and one of the parents showed up with their child, stayed, and visited for a short time.
Dorsey says the rest of the morning was spent changing diapers, playing with the children on the floor, took a photograph of the children, including a Snapchat of the two twins. Dorsey also took three phone calls that morning and tried to feed Luka again after 10:30 a.m.
Dorsey called Luka’s mother, Kaitlin, who worked in Anita. Kaitlin stated she would wrap things and head to the Daycare. Then Dorsey called Luka’s father, Nick, who worked a few blocks away. Nick arrived a couple of minutes later.
Defense Attorney Mark Edward Munger asked Alison whether she had to call 9-1-1 from 2002-2019. Her answer was no.
During cross-examination, Prosecuting Attorney Monty Platz asked Dorsey when she first noticed Luka’s abnormal breathing and asked why she didn’t immediately call for an ambulance.
Testimony is scheduled to begin on Monday at 9:00 a.m.
