Woman found guilty of manslaughter following death of one-month-old baby in Hythe

A 28-year-old woman from Hythe has today (20 July) been found guilty of manslaughter by a jury at Winchester Crown Court.

Chelsea Louise Cuthbertson, aged 28, formerly of Knightwood Road, Hythe was previously charged with the murder of her one-month-old baby; Malakai Watts in 2019.

Today, the jury acquitted her of murder and instead returned a verdict of manslaughter, holding her responsible for Malakai’s death.

The jury at Winchester Crown Court, which sat for over five weeks, heard how South Central Ambulance Service responded to reports of a seriously unwell baby at a property on Knightwood Road, Hythe. The incident happened at around 9.38am on Saturday 2 February 2019.

Malakai was taken to Southampton General Hospital to be treated, but sadly died a few days later.

He suffered non accidental injuries and his death was as a result of trauma, most likely involving shaking.

Chelsea Louise Cuthbertson will be sentenced at Winchester Crown Court on Thursday 22 July.

Detective Inspector Toby Elcock, the Senior Investigating Officer said: “We hope that today’s result brings closure, but also some level of comfort to Malakai’s family, as they now know that the person responsible for his death has been brought to justice.

“My team and I have put Malakai at the heart of our investigation and we have worked tirelessly over the last couple of years to hold responsible the person who brought about Malakai’s death.

“Malakai’s mother has never admitted her involvement so we welcome the jury’s decision today to convict Chelsea Louise Cuthbertson.

“I would like to further extend my sincere condolences to Malakai’s family, and all those who knew him, for their loss.”