A family has been advocating for a new law to protect children from abuse following the tragic death of their toddler at the hands of their mother’s boyfriend. Michael Daymond inflicted fatal injuries on 2-year-old Maya Chappell, leading to her demise, with medical evidence likening her injuries to those sustained in car accidents. Maya’s great aunt, Gemma Chappell, has been actively campaigning for a new legislation that could prevent children from being exposed to potential harm from abusive caregivers or parents.
The family initiated a petition on the government’s platform, garnering over 74,000 signatures, with a looming deadline of reaching 100,000 signatures for parliamentary consideration. They have also launched a GoFundMe campaign to bolster support for the petition and assist other families in similar circumstances.
Maya’s mother, Dana Carr, had separated from Maya’s father before getting involved with Daymond, who fatally shook the toddler while in his care. Gemma highlighted the importance of Maya’s Law, emphasizing how it could have safeguarded Maya and other vulnerable children from such tragedies.
Daymond was convicted of Maya’s murder and sentenced to life imprisonment, while Maya’s mother was found guilty of child cruelty and sentenced to nine years in prison. Gemma urged the public to support the petition, stressing the necessity of giving a voice to vulnerable children who are enduring abuse.
The family continues to advocate for Maya’s Law, aiming to prevent similar incidents in the future and ensure justice for Maya and other affected children.
