Birmingham man jailed for attempted murder of newborn baby
The 21-year-old admitted the offence in June.
Last updated 25th Oct 2021
A Birmingham man who gave prescription drugs to a three-week-old baby has been jailed for attempted murder.
Jamar Bailey, from Augustin Grove, Winson Green, was sentenced to 25 and a half years in prison today at Birmingham Crown Court. The 25-year-old admitted the offence in June this year.
Fortunately, the baby survived the ordeal and is now safeguarded, although it won't be known until she is older if there are lasting effects.
The then three-week-old baby girl was taken to hospital on 27th June 2020 after becoming unresponsive. A urine test detected sodium valproate, which is used to treat epilepsy and bipolar disorder. The Police were notified as the drug could not have been ingested accidently.
Police arrested Bailey after finding he was taking medication for seizures which contains sodium valproate. Toxicology tests found evidence of the drug in the baby's milk bottle.
Detectives also found a search history on Bailey's mobile phone for "how to poison a baby" and "how to kill a newborn baby".
Detective Sergeant Kirsty Wilson, from the force’s public protection unit, said: “The little girl is so lucky to be alive and we are really pleased that she is doing so well.
“Bailey’s actions were premeditated and could quite easily have resulted in her death.
“Our investigation was complex and relied on medical evidence and the support of partner agencies, so we are satisfied that justice has been done.”