North East mum found to have caused the death of son by poisoning his juice with methadone
Louise Cameron has been found to have caused the death of her young son Rhys after poisoning his blackcurrant juice with methadone
A mum has been found to have caused the death of her own son. Louise Cameron administered morphine to eight-year-old Rhys and spiked his blackcurrant juice with methadone.
Cameron left a message for her relatives over the weekend of September 13 and 14, stating she was "not dying without him". Teesside Crown Court was told that Cameron's sister grew worried when she was unable to contact Cameron during that weekend, and arrived at the property on Monday September 15, prior to a planned appointment with Cameron's social worker.
She discovered her sister in bed beside Rhys, who had died. The jury heard that Cameron, from Billingham, seemed "out of it" and may have attempted to take a lethal overdose.
A family member informed police that Cameron had been under strain during a pub meal on the Friday, when Rhys, who had autism, "had a meltdown". The relation stated that Cameron had intended to discuss matters with her social worker during a visit that week, but alleged the professional had "left early" when Rhys was distressed "because the television wasn't working".
At the University Hospital of North Tees in Stockton, the court was informed, Cameron stated: "I've just murdered Rhys. I didn't want to have to stab him or drown him or hurt him."
The jury required less than an hour on Thursday morning to determine whether Cameron committed the act with which she was charged, reports Teesside Live. Judge Heather Williams confirmed that Cameron will be sentenced on Thursday, September 18.
Cleveland Police Superintendent Deb Fenny stated: "This is a truly tragic case which has resulted in the devastating loss of a young child who was clearly loved by so many. Our thoughts remain firmly with Rhys' family and friends at this incredibly difficult time.
"We hope that today's outcome begins to provide the family with some answers about what happened and offers a degree of support as they continue to come to terms with their loss. I would also like to recognise and commend the family for the immense strength and resilience they have shown throughout these proceedings, having had to listen to the deeply distressing circumstances surrounding Rhys' death."