Man Jailed for Life After Shaking Toddler to Death – Mother Also Sentenced for Neglect
In a deeply tragic case, 38-year-old Christopher Stockton has been sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 25 years for the murder of his partner’s 22-month-old son, Charlie Roberts. The incident occurred in January 2024 at the family’s home in Darlington, where Stockton inflicted fatal injuries on the toddler.
On the day of the incident, Charlie’s mother, Paula Roberts, left her son in Stockton’s care while she attended an eye appointment. Shortly after her departure, Stockton called emergency services, reporting that Charlie had become unresponsive. He claimed the child had choked on a biscuit and that he had attempted to clear the obstruction. However, medical examinations revealed that Charlie had suffered severe brain injuries consistent with violent shaking or being thrown, injuries comparable to those seen in high-impact incidents such as car crashes or significant falls.
During the investigation, detectives discovered photographs on Paula Roberts’ phone showing Charlie with various bruises and injuries over time. Messages indicated her intention to seek medical attention for her son, but she failed to follow through. Roberts, 41, admitted to child cruelty by neglecting to obtain necessary medical care for Charlie and was sentenced to four years in prison.
The court heard that Roberts had harbored suspicions about Stockton’s behavior, even installing a camera above Charlie’s cot. Despite her concerns, she continued her relationship with Stockton and left him in sole care of her vulnerable son. The judge emphasized that Roberts had, in effect, turned a blind eye to the situation, contributing to the neglect that led to Charlie’s death.
This case highlights the devastating consequences of child abuse and neglect. It underscores the critical importance of vigilance and intervention when a child’s well-being is at risk. The loss of young Charlie serves as a somber reminder of the responsibility caregivers and communities hold in protecting the most vulnerable among us.
