Mother guilty of killing her handicapped infant
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.The mother of a severely handicapped baby girl was yesterday found guilty of killing her daughter by removing a vital breathing tube as she lay in a hospital cot. Julie Watts, 31, a psychiatric nurse, was cleared of murdering 14-month-old Abigail by a jury at Manchester Crown Court but was convicted of manslaughter.
The court was told that Abigail needed round-the-clock care after being born with a rare combination of disabilities that left her unable to breathe or feed without the aid of tubes. She was deaf and blind and suffered brain damage, connected to a rare skull deformity.
Mr Justice Sachs remanded Watts on bail for nine days for reports before sentencing. He told her counsel, Richard Henriques QC: "I have no intention of sending your client into custody, at least not immediately." He said he would require reports on the convicted woman.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments