48 Hours: Babysitter On Trial – Detailed Summary
Podcast Title: 48 Hours
Host/Author: CBS News
Episode Title: Babysitter On Trial
Release Date: July 24, 2025
I. Introduction
In the gripping episode titled "Babysitter On Trial," CBS News' award-winning correspondents delve into a heart-wrenching case that shook a suburban community to its core. The episode unravels the tragic events surrounding the death of 23-month-old Emily Woodruff and the subsequent accusation against her 14-year-old babysitter, Chris Ruth. Hosted by Leslie Stahl, the episode meticulously examines the complexities of the investigation, the legal battle, and the profound impact on both the victim's and the accused's families.
II. Background of the Families and Chris Ruth
A. The Woodruff Family
The Woodruff family, residing in Lawrenceville, Georgia, epitomized the quintessential suburban lifestyle. Kim Woodruff, a friendly and outgoing mother, managed a successful kid's clothing store [12:03]. Alongside her husband, Lewis, a traveling salesman, they were raising two toddlers: three-year-old Hunter and nearly two-year-old Emily. Their deep bond and the joy of overcoming years of fertility issues made them a beloved family in their community.
B. The Ruth Family
Contrastingly, the Ruth family presented a picture of stability and normalcy. Charlie and Cissy Ruth were proud parents of Chris Ruth, a high school honor student passionate about football [03:36]. Described by his parents as calm, reliable, and exceedingly gentle—Cissy remarked, "I've never seen him blow his cool" [22:50]—Chris was a model teenager whose unblemished record and loving demeanor made him a trusted member of the neighborhood.
C. The Babysitting Arrangement
The intersection of these two families occurred through Cissy Ruth's store, where Kim Woodruff sought a dependable babysitter amidst their busy schedules [07:53]. Impressed by Chris's responsible nature, Kim entrusted him with the care of her children, leading to a seemingly perfect babysitting arrangement [08:24].
Notable Quote:
"I was a student. I don't think I've ever lost my temper in my life. I'm a very mellow guy."
—Chris Ruth [03:43]
III. The Tragic Incident
On the afternoon of July 25, 2001, the lives of both families were irrevocably altered. Emily Woodruff, who had recently battled a stomach virus, fell severely ill while under Chris Ruth's supervision.
A. Onset of the Emergency
Emily began throwing up again, and Chris found himself alone with the sick toddler. Overwhelmed by the situation, Chris contacted Kim, who was at work.
B. Emergency Response
As Emily's condition deteriorated, Chris attempted to save her life through CPR. Paramedics arrived swiftly, but despite his efforts, Emily was pronounced dead two days later [09:46].
Notable Quote:
"I'm supposed to be getting my driver's license. [...] I'm in here."
—Chris Ruth [19:21]
IV. Investigation and Charges
The medical examiner's report revealed that Emily died from a combination of sexual assault and shaken baby syndrome. Gwinnett County District Attorney Danny Porter swiftly moved to prosecute Chris Ruth as an adult despite his young age.
A. Medical Findings
The autopsy indicated severe brain swelling equivalent to a significant traumatic injury and evidence suggestive of sexual assault [15:01].
B. Legal Proceedings
At just 14 years old, Chris was charged with felony murder, cruelty to children, aggravated child molestation, and aggravated sexual battery. The prosecution argued that any adolescent, including Chris, could inflict fatal injuries through shaking and assault [16:25].
C. Parental Perspectives
While the Woodruff family grappled with the loss and the accusation, the Ruths staunchly maintained Chris's innocence, believing in a hasty and unjust legal process [37:37].
V. The Trial
The courtroom became the battleground where two narratives clashed: one seeking justice for Emily, and the other fighting to exonerate an innocent teenager.
A. Prosecution's Case
District Attorney Danny Porter presented compelling evidence:
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Medical Testimonies: Experts testified that Emily's injuries were consistent with both sexual assault and shaken baby syndrome.
Quote:
"This child was shaken so hard that her head was snapping back and forth."
—Danny Porter [16:15] -
Witness Testimonies: Emily's mother, Kim Woodruff, expressed her heartbreak and disbelief, reinforcing her trust in Chris before the tragedy [30:01].
B. Defense's Case
Chris Ruth's defense team, led by Doug Peters, introduced alternative explanations:
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Medical Experts: Dr. Joseph Burton highlighted the lack of definitive evidence for sexual assault, suggesting that Emily's injuries could have resulted from eczema-related scratching [31:38].
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Alternative Cause of Death: The defense posited that a rare brain virus was responsible for Emily's death, supported by testimony from Dr. Chris Sperry, the state's chief medical examiner, who opined that the injuries were due to natural causes [32:32].
Notable Quote:
"This is, in my opinion, a natural disease process."
—Dr. Chris Sperry [32:40] -
Emotional Testimony: Chris took the stand, recounting his perspective and vehemently denying any involvement [30:30].
VI. Verdict and Aftermath
After a two-week trial filled with emotional testimonies and intense legal maneuvers, the jury reached its verdict.
A. Acquittal
The jury found Chris Ruth not guilty on all four counts: felony murder, cruelty to children, aggravated child molestation, and aggravated sexual battery [38:45].
B. Family Reactions
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Ruth Family: Relieved yet burdened by the traumatic experience, the Ruths celebrated Chris's freedom, though predictions of a challenging road ahead were evident [39:24].
Quote:
"He knows he didn't do anything wrong. He did everything to save this little girl's life."
—Charlie Ruth [37:37] -
Woodruff Family: Struggling with their loss, the Woodruffs expressed disappointment and continued grief, unable to reconcile the verdict with their desire for justice [40:52].
Quote:
"She was still gone. That's the main thing, you know, she's gone. I believe what I believe about what happened."
—Kim Woodruff [40:55]
C. Long-term Implications
The case left lingering questions about the justice system, the treatment of juvenile offenders, and the deep scars left on both families.
VII. Aftermath and Current Status
A. Chris Ruth's Journey
Post-verdict, Chris embarked on a path to rebuild his life. Overcoming legal battles and societal stigma, he pursued higher education and eventually became a defense attorney, transforming his harrowing experience into a mission to advocate for others [45:01].
B. The Woodruff Family's Healing
Despite the acquittal, the Woodruffs continued to mourn Emily's loss, grappling with the unfulfilled quest for closure and the impact of the tragedy on their lives [41:20].
VIII. Conclusion
"Babysitter On Trial" serves as a profound exploration of tragedy, justice, and the enduring quest for truth. Through meticulous reporting and heartfelt interviews, CBS News' "48 Hours" sheds light on the complexities inherent in such harrowing cases, leaving listeners to ponder the delicate balance between justice and compassion.
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
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Chris Ruth on his temperament:
"I never lost my temper in my life. I'm a very mellow guy."
—Chris Ruth [03:43] -
Harold Dow on the impact of the accusation:
"Don't allow your children to babysit. You never know what might happen."
—Harold Dow [01:12] -
Danny Porter on the prosecution’s view:
"Any adolescent is capable of shaking a child hard enough to kill them."
—Danny Porter [16:25] -
Kim Woodruff expressing disbelief:
"I fully trusted Christopher, and more than that, I fully trusted his mother in recommending Christopher."
—Kim Woodruff [30:01] -
Chris Ruth on his innocence:
"I would never, ever have any thoughts about hurting Emily."
—Chris Ruth [25:44] -
Charlie Ruth on the legal process:
"This is a child who won't let you kill bugs. He can't even stand for the dogs to be disciplined."
—Charlie Ruth [22:50] -
Dr. Chris Sperry on Emily's cause of death:
"Shaking is extremely rare as a cause of severe brain injury or death in children older than 6 months."
—Dr. Chris Sperry [32:58]
Final Thoughts
This episode underscores the profound challenges faced by families entangled in legal battles over tragic events. It highlights the critical importance of thorough investigations, unbiased legal proceedings, and the enduring resilience of those seeking truth and justice. "Babysitter On Trial" is a poignant reminder of the fragility of trust and the far-reaching consequences of moments that forever alter lives.