A mother has been sentenced to life in prison for the murder of her two-month-old baby. Zara Arsalan, 31, residing in West Bromwich, was found guilty of killing her daughter, Harleen Bains, by repeatedly striking the baby’s head on the floor in a fit of rage at their residence in the Black Country on July 23, 2020.
Emergency services were alerted after a report that the baby girl was unresponsive following a fall from her mother’s lap. Upon arrival at the West Bromwich home, paramedics discovered Harleen with unstable breathing and a severe head injury.
Despite efforts, the baby passed away the next day in the hospital due to injuries deemed inconsistent with a fall by the police, indicating contact with a hard surface.
A post-mortem examination revealed multiple skull fractures, brain bleeding, broken ribs, and a collarbone fracture in Harleen. The police also suggested she had been shaken. Arsalan denied the murder charge but was convicted after a trial.
During sentencing at Coventry Crown Court, Mr. Justice Cavanagh KC handed Arsalan a life term with a minimum of 19 years, stating his certainty that Arsalan had violently banged Harleen’s head against a hard surface several times.
The judge described the act as a sudden outburst of rage, emphasizing the extreme violence inflicted on Harleen. He highlighted the immense pain and fear the baby must have endured before losing consciousness.
Mr. Justice Cavanagh noted a statement from Harleen’s aunt, portraying her as a beloved and precious baby, expressing the family’s enduring grief over her loss.
Detective Chief Inspector Phil Poole of the West Midlands Police homicide unit characterized the case as profoundly tragic, condemning Arsalan for causing the death of her defenseless infant. He commended the investigative team for their relentless efforts in seeking justice for Harleen and her family.
The sentencing aims to offer some solace to Harleen’s grieving family, as they continue to cope with the irreparable loss.