A woman who caused fatal head injuries to her infant daughter and then delayed seeking medical help by taking a bath and buying a lottery ticket has appeared in court. Sarah Ngaba, 32, admits causing severe harm to seven-week-old Eliza but denies murder, arguing the lesser charge of infanticide due to mental disturbance.
During the trial at Birmingham Crown Court, jurors were informed that Eliza succumbed to infection at the age of two in August 2022, a result of the injuries inflicted by her mother. Ngaba, who had relocated from Shropshire to be closer to family for the birth, was accused of causing grievous bodily harm in the past.
Prosecutor Jonas Hankin KC emphasized that the injuries inflicted by Ngaba were a direct factor leading to Eliza’s death, making her vulnerable to fatal complications. The prosecution contended that Ngaba’s actions following the incident, including delaying medical intervention, purchasing a lottery ticket, and displaying detachment at the hospital, were inconsistent with a childbirth-related mental disturbance but rather suggestive of anger and lack of control.
The court was told that Ngaba ignored advice to seek immediate medical attention for Eliza, opting to bathe and dress first, call a taxi, run errands, and remain composed throughout the ordeal. Medical staff described Eliza’s condition upon arrival at the hospital as critical, indicating severe neurological trauma.
Ngaba’s defense hinges on the claim of a disturbed mental state due to childbirth, but the prosecution argued that her behavior indicated otherwise. The trial is ongoing to determine the legal outcome of the case.