BIRMINGHAM TEACHER COUPLE NEGLECTS 12-YEAR-OLD TO DEATH, COURT TOLD
Two teachers, Damion Thomas, 48, and Tamara Thomas, 45, are accused of neglecting their 12-year-old son Joshua, who collapsed on December 9, 2022, at their home in Yarningale Road, Kings Heath.Joshua suffered from untreated and undiagnosed Type 1 diabetes which led to diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a life-threatening condition.
The prosecution argues they did nothing to seek urgent medical help despite warning signs.
Tamara did not call emergency services until 12:43 pm after noticing severe symptoms such as white lips, foaming from the mouth, and faint breathing.
The court was told she and Damion failed to recognize the danger of untreated diabetes, despite both being aware of its symptoms and Damion having lived through it himself.
Joshua later died at Birmingham Children's Hospital.
The couple deny child cruelty and gross negligence manslaughter.
