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Possible 'conflict of interest' delays hearing for mother accused of leaving kids inside sinking car

The prosecution raised concerns over a potential "conflict of interest."

NEWPORT NEWS, Va. — There was a delay in the preliminary hearing scheduled Tuesday morning for the Hampton mother accused of leaving her three young children in a sinking car in Newport News over the summer.

Reality Goodwin’s preliminary hearing didn’t happen as expected because the prosecution claims there are concerns over a potential "conflict of interest."

RELATED: 3 children rescued from sinking vehicle in Newport News, mother arrested: Police

The prosecution told the judge that the public defender representing Goodwin also represents a witness in this case on a separate case. 

The judge directed the defense to contact the Bar to find out if there is a conflict of interest, telling both parties it’s “important” this is looked into.

Goodwin is accused of leaving her three children in a sinking car back on Aug. 21. Police say around 9:30 that night, they found a car in a retention pond with the kids inside. She escaped but left her 7-, 4- and 2-year-old children inside the car.

According to court documents, bystanders jumped into action to save the children after the car went into the water as Goodwin walked away. 

Officers found Goodwin in a nearby apartment and tried to arrest her after allegedly smelling “a strong odor of alcohol."

RELATED: Actions of Hampton mother who left children trapped in sinking car detailed in court documents

Court paperwork says Goodwin hit and spit on the arresting officers.

At the time of her arrest, Goodwin said she worked at a daycare center in Hampton. A manager there says Goodwin no longer works there, however.

Goodwin will return to court on Dec. 6 for a status update. 

She faces nine charges including child endangerment and assault on law enforcement.

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