APPLE VALLEY — A 50-year-old Eagan woman who pleaded guilty in the 2012 death of her infant grandson could avoid prison if she abides by probation terms.

According to a press release, Johanna Mercedes Limpert Beeler was sentenced to 58 months in prison Feb. 3, but that sentence was stayed while she’s on probation through January 2026. She pleaded guilty in the fall to second-degree manslaughter.

Beeler is serving a 45-day sentence in Dakota County Jail under terms imposed in court.

A criminal complaint says Beeler admitted to drinking a significant amount of vodka. She told police she fell asleep with the baby lying on top of her. An autopsy didn’t rule out that the baby was accidentally smothered.

The terms of Beeler’s probation said she isn’t allowed to use alcohol or controlled substances.