UK Nurse Sentenced to Life for Toddler’s Murder After Custody Battle Loss

A UK nurse, Shilyrand Charigwati, has been sentenced to life imprisonment for suffocating her two-year-old daughter, Roselyn, in an act of revenge following a custody dispute with her ex-partner.

The crime occurred on April 14, 2024, at their home in Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire.

Prosecutors revealed that Charigwati’s mild to moderate depressive illness did not impair her ability to make rational decisions.

Once described as a loving mother, Charigwati displayed unusual anger toward Roselyn’s father following family court proceedings.

Neighbours reported seeing her appear “tired of life” in the days leading up to the murder.

Luton Crown Court heard that Charigwati suffocated her daughter using a plastic bag before calling the police to report the crime.

Initially, Charigwati pleaded guilty to manslaughter on the grounds of diminished responsibility, but jurors rejected this defense and found her guilty of murder.

Judge Mrs Justice Williams emphasized Roselyn’s vulnerability due to her young age and identified “spousal revenge” as the motive behind the crime.

The court also highlighted the betrayal of trust involved.

Detective Inspector Justine Jenkins, who led the investigation, expressed condolences to Roselyn’s family and described the case as deeply distressing.

In an emotional victim impact statement, Roselyn’s father, Washington, paid tribute to his daughter, calling her “joyful, funny, playful, beautiful and so full of love.”

He reflected on her love for nursery school, playing outside, and her newfound joy in riding a scooter.

Washington described the pain of losing her as something he carries every day, alongside the joy of having known and loved her unconditionally.

Charigwati was sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 16 years, underscoring the severity of her actions and the court’s recognition of the trust she betrayed.