Scuffles in court as mum accused of killing son, 7
A MOTHER has appeared in court charged with manslaughter over the death of her seven-year-old son.
Hakeem Hussain was found dead by paramedics at a house in the Nechells area of Birmingham on November 26, 2017. The youngster had been outside in freezing conditions and suffered a cardiac arrest.
Scuffles broke out between bystanders in the public gallery, from where four men were ejected, when his mother Laura Heath, 39, appeared before the city’s magistrates for the first time yesterday.
The angry scenes then continued outside the courtroom, with those inside locked in for their safety.
Heath, who was charged earlier this week with causing her son’s death and four counts of child cruelty, confirmed her personal details during an hourlong hearing.
She was remanded to appear before
Birmingham crown court on August 12. The cruelty offences are said to have been committed on dates between April 12 and November 26, 2017.
Hakeem was a Year 3 pupil at Nechells E-ACT Academy, a short walk from where he was found.
Headteacher Julie Wright said at the time: ‘Hakeem was a most beautiful little boy, a great friend to many staff and children with a wicked sense of humour and an infectious giggle.
‘He was a warm and generous-hearted soul who was talented across many areas of the curriculum but especially so in music and the arts.’
One neighbour said previously: ‘He was the sweetest little kid.
‘Would always be full of beans and would wave and say hello. Just a lovely little soul.’
Det Insp Jim Munro, of West Midlands Police, said at the time of Hakeem’s death: ‘This is a tragic case and has understandably had a huge impact on the community.’