Mother charged over toddler’s death ‘at risk’ amid social media backlash

The safety of a mother accused of allowing her toddler’s death would be at risk if she returns to her home in Co Tyrone, the Belfast high court heard on Wednesday.

Prosecutors identified a social media backlash against Jade Dempsey as they opposed her release on charges connected to the alleged murder of Ali Jayden Doyle (2). But lawyers for the defendant claimed she is confident of the support of her neighbours in Dungannon.

The little girl died in hospital after sustaining serious head injuries earlier this month.

Dempsey (24), of Sycamore Drive in the town, faces charges of perverting the course of justice and causing or allowing the death of a child. Her partner, Darren Armstrong (32), is accused of Ali’s murder and perverting the course of justice.

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With Mr Armstrong having requested a defence post mortem, the release of the child’s body has been delayed. Paramedics called to his home at Park Avenue, Dungannon on August 6th and brought the toddler to the Royal Victoria Hospital in Belfast where she was pronounced dead.

According to the prosecution, Ms Dempsey had at first lied to police about what happened on the day her daughter died. She then told detectives that she actually planned to travel to Belfast that day to buy a buggy, leaving her son and daughter with Mr Armstrong in contravention of social services care arrangements. But on her way to the bus station he informed her by phone that Ali was no longer breathing.

It was previously disclosed that Mr Armstrong had been prohibited from unsupervised contact with the children.

Bail application

As Ms Dempsey’s application for bail resumed on Wednesday, a Crown lawyer reiterated concerns about her safety, with social media comments fuelling fears of trouble if she goes back to Dungannon. The risk to the accused on a return to her home address could not be managed, it was contended.

However, Mrs Justice Keegan was told efforts to secure alternative accommodation had so far been unsuccessful. It was also stressed that Ms Dempsey was anxious for contact with her son.

Referring to the “vitriol” on social media, defence counsel submitted: “People are making assumptions, then making lurid and wild threats which are most likely baseless.”

The barrister added: “She (Ms Dempsey) is very confident of the support of her neighbours, and is aware they held a balloon release ceremony where there were prayers not just for Ali Jayden, but also Ms Dempsey.

“She is confident they know her to be a good mother and will support her.”

The bail application was adjourned again for further attempts to secure an address.

Mrs Justice Keegan said: “I would hope with the help of statutory agencies even in the short term, a solution can be found.”