A woman has received a life sentence with a minimum of 12 years in prison for killing her seven-week-old daughter. Sarah Ngaba, aged 32, caused severe head injuries to Eliza Ngaba and then proceeded to purchase a lottery ticket before seeking medical help.
Ngaba acknowledged causing critical injuries to Eliza but denied murder, arguing for infanticide instead. However, a jury at Birmingham Crown Court convicted her of murder. During the sentencing, Trial judge Mrs. Justice Brunner KC sentenced Ngaba to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 12 years and 154 days. The judge described the act as the culmination of escalating hostility towards the infant.
Formerly residing in Briarwood, Brookside, Telford, Shropshire, Ngaba had previously been found guilty of causing grievous bodily harm to her child, who was left severely disabled following an assault in November 2019. Eliza succumbed to a respiratory infection in August 2022, with the assault leaving her vulnerable.
Mrs. Justice Brunner commended Eliza’s foster parents, Laura and Gary Haynes, for their exceptional care and love towards the child. The judge criticized Ngaba for delaying medical help and not prioritizing her daughter’s well-being.
The judge noted that Ngaba had already served a significant portion of her prior sentence for wounding, resulting in a reduced minimum term. Ngaba’s defense lawyer, Gordon Aspden KC, highlighted her positive behavior during her time in prison and urged for the shortest possible sentence.
Prosecutor Lisa Hancox stated that the evidence indicated a prolonged and violent assault on Eliza by her mother. Ngaba had exhibited increasing hostility towards Eliza before the tragic incident, showing a lack of care during the infant’s collapse.
The prosecution argued that Eliza’s death was a result of a violent and sustained attack during a fit of rage by her mother. The court was urged to consider the severity of the assault on the defenseless infant.
Overall, the case highlighted the tragic consequences of the violent actions committed by Ngaba, leading to the loss of a young life and significant suffering for all involved.
