A woman has been convicted of causing the death of her three-month-old baby by exposing her to heat from a hairdryer.
Courtney Gartshore, 28, had previously denied being responsible for the death of her daughter Dahlia-Rose in Peterhead, Aberdeenshire, in September 2023.
After a trial at the High Court in Aberdeen, jurors reached a guilty verdict in just over an hour. Gartshore was visibly upset as she was escorted from the courtroom to the cells, according to reports.
The court found Gartshore guilty of negligently and recklessly causing her daughter to be exposed to heat from the hairdryer while the child was under her care. The injuries sustained by the baby were deemed fatal.
Gartshore is set to receive her sentence at the High Court in Edinburgh on August 14.
During the trial, evidence was presented that Dahlia-Rose had suffered burns on 18% of her body, and her DNA was detected on the hairdryer. A distressing 999 call made by Gartshore, reporting her child’s alarming condition, was played in court.
However, a burns expert, Dr. Timothy Burges, testified that the heat injuries were not the direct cause of Dahlia-Rose’s death, suggesting she may have already been deceased.
Allegations were made that Gartshore had consumed alcohol before her child’s tragic demise. Other charges against her were dropped by the prosecution.
The incident was reported to the police on September 30, 2023, by the Scottish Ambulance Service, following Dahlia-Rose’s death in Peterhead. Gartshore was later arrested and charged in November 2023 after an investigation into the child’s passing.
Detective Inspector James Callander emphasized the vulnerability of children and the responsibility to safeguard them. He expressed gratitude to all involved in the challenging investigation for their dedication and professionalism in seeking justice for Dahlia-Rose.
The community’s cooperation and support, particularly those who provided essential information, were acknowledged for their assistance in uncovering the truth and securing the conviction.