A reporter covering the high-profile Lindsay Clancy murder trial has faced widespread criticism after a courtroom camera appeared to capture her smiling and winking during proceedings involving the deaths of three children.

Brittany Romano, who was attending the trial for a potential personal essay about her connection to Clancy, was seen on a CourtTV livestream appearing to smile toward the camera while other journalists remained focused on the courtroom proceedings.

The moment quickly spread online, with many viewers questioning whether the reaction was appropriate given the seriousness of the case, which centers on allegations that Lindsay Clancy killed her three young children. Clancy’s defense argues she was experiencing a severe mental health crisis at the time and should be found not guilty by reason of insanity.

Romano later explained that she had known Clancy since childhood and said her expression was misunderstood, claiming she smiled after being told by her father that she looked too sad while appearing on live television.

Following the backlash, Vanity Fair announced that it would no longer move forward with Romano’s planned essay and that her court credentials had been withdrawn.

“We were interested in the prospect of a personal essay by Brittany Romano about her experience growing up with Lindsay Clancy,” the publication said, adding that after reviewing the situation, it decided not to continue the project.

Romano also responded to the online criticism, saying she had received intense backlash over the incident.

The controversy has added another unexpected chapter to a trial already drawing national attention, as the court continues to examine the events surrounding one of the most tragic criminal cases in Massachusetts in recent years.

Course: NY Post