Birmingham mother, 31, found guilty of killing two-month-old daughter in West Bromwich
A woman has been found guilty of killing her two-month-old baby daughter in West Bromwich.
Zara Arsalan, of Floyer Road, Bordesley Green, Birmingham, had pleaded not guilty to killing baby Harleen in 2020 but today (February 20) the 31-year-old was found guilty of her baby girl’s murder at Coventry Crown Court.
On July 23, 2020 emergency services received a call that a baby girl was unresponsive after falling from her mother’s lap.
When paramedics arrived at a maisonette in Caddick Crescent, in West Bromwich, Harleen’s breathing was unstable, and she had a serious head injury. The little girl was taken to hospital where she sadly died from her injuries the next day.
A post-mortem examination revealed that the little girl had multiple skull fractures, bleeding on the brain, fractured ribs and a fractured collarbone: injuries that were not consistent with a fall but more like coming into contact with a hard surface. Harleen was also likely shaken.
Zara Arsalan was arrested and later charged with Harleen’s murder.
Detective Chief Inspector Phil Poole, from West Midlands Police's homicide unit, said: “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.”
Arsalan is due to be sentenced on March 12.
