A young couple appeared in court today accused of battering their seven-week-old son to death.
Adam Kightley, 23, and Jacqueline Parker, 21, appeared before Northampton Magistrates’ Court charged with murdering little Jamie Kightley.
Tragic Jamie died at Northampton General Hospital on March 17 as a result of a head trauma. He also had a number of other injuries.
The couple spoke only to confirm their names, ages and address during the brief three minute hearing.
They were charged with murdering Jamie as well as neglect.
Members of the family who were in court to support the pair and shouted ‘I love you’ as they were remanded in custody.
Magistrate Carol Taylor adjourned the case until today when they will appear at Northampton Crown Court.
At an earlier inquest, forensic pathologist, Professor Guy Rutty, examined the Jamie’s body and said “the most significant injury” was a recent blunt trauma to the head.
He also found evidence of blunt trauma to the tot’s abdomen, back, both arms and both legs.
There had also been rib fractures of “varying ages”, he said.
Northamptonshire Coroner Anne Pember said no evidence was found of any underlying health conditions that could have contributed to the death.
Northamptonshire County Council has confirmed no concerns about the baby were communicated to social workers and no professional referrals were made.
