A heartbreaking case has shocked the community, highlighting the devastating consequences of trust placed in the wrong hands.
A man who brutally shook his partner’s toddler to death after a late-night gaming session has been sentenced to life in prison.
The Unthinkable Crime
Christopher Stockton, 38, was entrusted with the care of 22-month-old Charlie Roberts when the child suffered a fatal head injury.
The tragedy took place in the family’s Darlington home, where Charlie’s mother, Paula Roberts, had left Stockton alone with her son.
Despite her suspicions about him, she continued the relationship and only later admitted to neglecting her child.
A Mother’s Suspicion
Roberts, 41, was wary enough of Stockton’s behavior that she installed a hidden camera above Charlie’s cot.
However, despite her concerns, she remained in the relationship and confided in her brother about her unease.
Eventually, she admitted in court that she had failed to seek medical attention for the bruises Stockton had inflicted on Charlie in the weeks leading up to the murder.
The Horrific Moment
Stockton, who had moved in with Roberts and Charlie just a week before the incident, was reportedly exhausted from playing Xbox games late into the night.
On that fateful January morning, while Roberts had stepped out for an eye test, Stockton snapped and violently shook or threw the toddler, causing catastrophic brain injuries.
A Desperate Call for Help
Realizing the severity of what had happened, Stockton dialed 999, pleading with Charlie to wake up.
His voice was recorded saying, “Come on, mate” and “Wakey wakey,” as the little boy lay unresponsive.
Stockton later attempted to cover up his crime by telling paramedics and police that Charlie had choked on a biscuit, claiming he had tried to clear the child’s airway.
The Legal Consequences
Following a trial at Teesside Crown Court, Stockton was found guilty of murder and child cruelty.
He has been sentenced to life in prison, with a minimum of 25 years behind bars.
Meanwhile, Roberts, who initially denied child cruelty charges but later admitted to neglect, has been sentenced to four years in prison.
Statements from the Court
Prosecutor Nicholas Lumley KC described how Stockton deliberately and forcefully harmed Charlie.
Defense attorney Jamie Hill KC argued that the crime was not premeditated and that Stockton had no prior criminal record.
Meanwhile, Richard Herrmann, who represented Roberts, highlighted her mental health struggles, noting that she now has to live with the guilt of failing to protect her son.
The Family’s Pain
Charlie’s father, Barry Greenwell, expressed the deep grief felt by the family.
In a statement, he described Charlie as a beloved son and grandson whose death has left an irreplaceable void.
The family is still struggling to process the tragic loss and the disturbing details that emerged during the trial.
A Warning for Parents
Detective Superintendent Chris Barker, who led the investigation, emphasized the importance of acting on concerns about child safety.
He pointed out that Roberts’ decision to install a spy camera indicated she suspected something was wrong.
He urged anyone who has doubts about their child’s caregiver to seek help immediately.
A Life Cut Short
Charlie had his entire future ahead of him, but his life was cruelly taken away.
This case serves as a painful reminder of the consequences of ignoring red flags and failing to act in time.
The justice system has now spoken, but the emotional wounds left behind will take much longer to heal.
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