A Maryland mother who spent years in a psychiatric facility after being accused of killing her two young children is now back in jail. Catherine Hoggle, 38, was recently indicted on two counts of murder in connection with the disappearance of her kids, Sarah and Jacob Hoggle, who were last seen in 2014.
Children Vanished in 2014, Never Found
Sarah Hoggle, 3, and Jacob Hoggle, 2, were last seen on September 7, 2014, with their mother. Despite extensive searches, the children have never been found, and authorities believe they are no longer alive. Although their bodies have not been recovered, investigators say the evidence points to their deaths.
Years of Delays Due to Mental Health Incompetency
Catherine Hoggle was arrested shortly after her children vanished and initially faced charges of child neglect and obstruction. These were later upgraded to murder charges. However, for nearly five years, she was found mentally unfit to stand trial—more than 30 times. Her attorney described her as “profoundly mentally ill.”
In 2022, a judge dismissed the murder charges because Maryland law does not allow a person to be held for trial longer than five years if they remain incompetent. Hoggle was instead committed indefinitely to a maximum-security psychiatric hospital.
Prosecutors Refile Charges After Her Release
In late July 2025, Hoggle was released from the psychiatric facility, which gave prosecutors the legal opportunity to refile the charges. A grand jury indicted her for murder, and police arrested her on Friday.
The Montgomery County State’s Attorney’s Office stated that this is not considered “double jeopardy” because the original charges were dropped due to her mental health status—not because she was found not guilty.
Defense Attorney Disagrees With Re-Arrest
Hoggle’s lawyer, David Felsen, told NBC Washington that “legally, nothing has changed since 2022” and said her re-arrest is “not proper or appropriate.” The court will now determine whether she is fit to face the new charges.
Father and Family Still Seeking Justice
Troy Turner, the father of Sarah and Jacob, issued a statement along with other family members. They said they are closely watching developments and continue to work with authorities to get justice. They also asked for privacy as they continue their personal healing and search for answers.
The investigation remains active, and police are still urging the public to come forward with any tips.
Anyone with information can contact Crime Solvers of Montgomery County at www.crimesolversmcmd.org or call 1-866-411-8477.
The heartbreaking case of Sarah and Jacob Hoggle continues to unfold nearly 11 years after they went missing. With Catherine Hoggle now back in custody and facing murder charges again, their family holds onto hope for justice. As authorities reopen the legal process, the public’s help remains crucial in solving this tragic mystery.
