Woman guilty of killing her two-month-old daughter in West Bromwich
Zara Arsalan has been found guilty of murdering her two-month-old daughter following a trial at Coventry Crown Court
A 31-year-old mother was found guilty of murdering her baby girl.
Zara Arsalan was accused of killing her daughter, Harleen, in 2020 after emergency services were called to her home in West Bromwich on 23rd July.
They responded to reports that Harleen was unresponsive after allegedly falling from her mother's lap.
Upon arrival, paramedics found Harleen with unstable breathing and a severe head injury.
She was taken to hospital, where she passed away from her injuries the following day.
A post-mortem examination revealed multiple skull fractures, bleeding on the brain, fractured ribs, and a fractured collar bone.
These injuries were determined to be inconsistent with a fall and suggested that Harleen had come into contact with a hard surface and was likely shaken.
Zara Arsalan was subsequently arrested and charged with her daughter's murder.
The verdict was reached today, and Arsalan is scheduled to be sentenced on 12th March.
Detective Chief Inspector Phil Poole, from the Homicide Unit, commented on the case, stating, “This is an incredibly tragic case.
Harleen was only two months old when she died at the hands of the person who should have been doing everything to keep her safe.
Arsalan has never taken responsibility for her actions.
Instead, she has repeatedly lied about what happened to Harleen despite being shown evidence that rejects her claims.
I want to thank all of the officers involved as I know they were deeply affected by this investigation.
They have worked incredibly hard to get justice for Harleen and her family.”