NSPCC issues warning after North East man found guilty of murdering 22-month-old baby

Children’s charity the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC) has issued a warning after a Darlington man was found guilty of murdering 22-month-old Charlie Roberts. Christopher Stockton, 38, was found guilty of murder as well as child cruelty.

Charlie died in January this year when he suffered catastrophic brain injuries after he had been left by his mother Paula Roberts in Stockton’s sole care. The jury accepted the prosecution argument that Charlie may have been “shaken or thrown with considerable force” prior to his death – and that the fatal injuries would only have been inflicted after Roberts left.

Following the case, a spokesperson for the NSPCC said: “Charlie’s tragic death at the hands of the man who was supposed to be caring for him is heart-breaking.

“Children, especially young babies, rely on the adults around them to keep them safe, and so are particularly vulnerable to abuse. Stockton’s brutal actions have robbed Charlie’s family of seeing him grow up, and our thoughts are with all those who knew and loved this little boy.

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“It is vital that anyone with concerns about a child’s welfare or safety speaks out. The NSPCC Helpline is available on 0808 8005000 or at help@nspcc.org.uk.”

Stockton was remanded in custody and will face sentencing in the New Year – though the judge emphasised that given the murder conviction, he would face a life sentence.

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NSPCC issues warning after North East man found guilty of murdering 22-month-old baby

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View news Source: https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/news/north-east-news/nspcc-warning-after-child-murder-30557881

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