Mother Accused of Murdering Son Allegedly Cites Bible for Justification

Christina Robinson, 30, is charged in a tragic case at Newcastle Crown Court with killing her three-year-old son Dwelaniyah in their Bracken Court, Durham, home in November 2022.

The court heard Robinson’s claim that she used a bamboo cane to discipline her child, citing biblical teachings on chastisement.

Emergency services were summoned to the residence after Robinson reported that Dwelaniyah had become unresponsive while eating a cheese bun.

However, prosecuting attorney Richard Wright KC presented a different narrative, alleging that the boy had sustained a severe, ultimately fatal head injury due to violent shaking by his mother.

Evidence presented to the court revealed disturbing details of Dwelaniyah’s condition before his passing.

His legs were found heavily bandaged, concealing burns covering up to 20% of his body. These burns, inflicted deliberately and forcefully in a bath, would have caused immense suffering for weeks leading up to his demise.

Paramedics’ body-worn footage depicted their efforts to revive Dwelaniyah at the scene, where Robinson claimed the injuries were sustained in a shower incident, deeming them not requiring hospital attention.

According to the prosecution, neighbours reported hearing whimpering sounds at night, unaware of their origin.

Further investigation revealed bruises consistent with being struck by a cylindrical object, with tests on a bamboo cane in the household confirming traces of Dwelaniyah’s blood and skin.

During the trial, Mr Wright informed jurors that Robinson admitted to using a weapon to discipline her son, justifying her actions based on biblical guidance regarding child chastisement.

A post-mortem examination uncovered multiple non-accidental injuries suffered by Dwelaniyah.

Despite the evidence presented, Robinson maintains her innocence, pleading not guilty to charges of murdering Dwelaniyah and child cruelty.

M10News provides this coverage of the ongoing trial as a solemn reminder of the importance of safeguarding children and seeking justice for victims of abuse.