HANNAH TURTLE FROM DEESIDE SENTENCED FOR MURDERING 7-WEEK-OLD BABY JAMES

In a tragic case that has shocked the community of Deeside, Hannah Turtle, aged 22, was sentenced to life imprisonment after she changed her plea and admitted to the murder of her seven-week-old son, James. The heartbreaking incident took place in Deeside, where the young mother’s actions led to devastating consequences for her family and the local community.

Hannah Turtle appeared before Mold Crown Court, where Mr. Justice Clive Lewis presided over the case. The judge ordered that Turtle must serve a minimum of 14 years and nine months before she is eligible to apply for parole. During the sentencing, the judge acknowledged that Turtle suffered from a personality disorder, which he stated reduced her level of culpability in the crime. Despite this, the court found her actions to be profoundly tragic and deserving of severe punishment.

James, the infant victim, was described as a vulnerable and innocent child who deserved the protection and care that a mother is supposed to provide. The court heard that Turtle, in a moment of tragic neglect, suffocated her own baby. The judge emphasized that James was only eight weeks old and had every right to expect love and safety from his mother. Instead, Turtle’s breach of her maternal duties resulted in his untimely death.

Kathleen Hughes, James’ grandmother, delivered a victim impact statement that was read aloud in court by prosecuting barrister David Elias QC. She described her grandson’s death as “pure evil” and expressed her disbelief that someone who appeared to be a kind and caring person could commit such an act against her family. Her words underscored the profound grief and sense of betrayal felt by the family in the wake of this tragedy.

Initially, Turtle had denied all charges, which included murder, three counts of ill-treatment, and two charges of administering her own anti-depression medication to James through his milk. However, on the seventh day of her trial, she unexpectedly changed her plea, admitting to all the allegations. Turtle revealed that she had heard voices in her head telling her she was a bad mother and that she did not deserve her baby, which she claimed contributed to her actions.

As part of her sentencing, Turtle received six months in prison for cruelty and an additional 12 months for administering a noxious substance, with both sentences to be served concurrently. The case has left a lasting impact on the Deeside community, highlighting the tragic consequences of mental health issues and the importance of safeguarding vulnerable children.