Courts / Cork / Report
Toddler died after ingesting father's methadone, neglect trial hears
Summary
Sadie Douglas, aged 25, stood trial at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court for wilful neglect after her two‑year‑old daughter, Heidi, died on 14 April 2016 from methadone toxicity. Heidi, born 8 August 2013, was found unconscious in the bed at the family home on Rathsallagh Drive, Shankill, Co. Dublin. Douglas and her partner had stayed up late on 13 April, looking at photographs on an old phone. On 14 April, Douglas allegedly placed Heidi beside her on the bed and fell asleep, while the father slept at the foot of the bed. Heidi ate crackers with her brother, then remained in bed until discovered unconscious. An ambulance took her to Our Lady's Hospital for Sick Children, where she died. A state pathologist found methadone in Heidi's system, concluding death was due to methadone poisoning. The unnamed accused pleaded not guilty.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: Toddler died after ingesting father's methadone, neglect trial hears. Charges or matters: one count of wilful neglect, leading to the death of the child, between April 13 and 14, 2016. Procedural stage: trial
When:
- April 13 Hearing Or Sentence
- August 8 2013 Hearing Or Sentence
- April 14 2016 Hearing Or Sentence
- April 14 Other
- 2022-06-16 Publication
Why: The court heard that death was caused by a brain disfunction because of a lack of oxygen due to a decrease of blood pressure through methadone poisoning. Court evidence reported by CNI
Case subjects
Accused
Charges: one count of wilful neglect, leading to the death of the child, between April 13 and 14, 2016 (Alleged Or Contested)
Plea: Not guilty
Places mentioned
- Dublin
- Dublin Circuit Criminal Court
- Rathsallagh Drive
- Our Lady's Hospital
Topics
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