A Tulalip woman pleaded not guilty in tribal court Thursday after her two toddlers who had been living in a car on the Tulalip reservation were found alone and in need of immediate medical attention.  One of the children later died.

Tulalip tribal member Christina Carlson, 36, is charged with four counts of criminal endangerment and failure to support or care for a dependent. According to charging documents, the offenses occurred on or about Sept. 19, 2012 through Oct. 8, 2012.

One of her children, 18-month-old Chantel Craig, was unresponsive when she was found and later died at the hospital.

Carlson’s second child, 2-year-old Juanita Craig, remains hospitalized for dehydration and a severe rash, according to family friends.

A family friend said Carlson has a drug problem and left the toddlers alone for days.

Though the woman’s trial is set for Dec. 5, federal authorities, who often assist with investigations on tribal land, could bring more charges against Craig, the Herald said.

In that situation, Carlson’s case would move from tribal court to the Snohomish County court.

Carlson’s bond was set at $75,000 cash only.   If able to post bond, Carlson must get mental health and chemical dependency evaluations and is prohibited from drinking alcohol, taking prescription drugs and having contact with children under 18 years old.   She is currently in the Snohomish County Jail.

The judge ordered that Carlson’s face not be photographed in court.  She appeared in court with a pink blanket around her body and head.