On September 25, she wrote: “I just got it out again, I don’t want to do that. I’m serious, nobody talks to you about all this nonsense. I’m just a bullying parent, so it seems. “
Her husband replied, “You are not a bully, darling. Not at all. Do not say this. I think he’s a little too devilish to handle.
“Let’s just call it termination. I don’t want you to have a mental breakdown. You are more important to me than him. “
The castles were previously selected by an adoption commission following an application process overseen by the Cumbria Children’s Services Department, the court heard.
In November 2020, a social worker announced from a mandatory visit that she was concerned that Laura Castle had said she did not like Leyland-James and that he “did not like to stand”, that he was “lazy” and “big”.
A review of the accommodation was held the following month and the castles were told that local authorities would not support an application for permanent adoption unless additional therapeutic work was undertaken.
“Disappointment has turned into hostility”
However, the couple remained determined to continue the process, the court was told, and a care planning meeting with social workers for the new year was recommended.
Mr Brady told the jury that Laura Castle had pleaded guilty to the manslaughter of Leyland-James, but did not accept that she intended to cause serious harm or kill him.
He said: “The Crown case is taking place against the backdrop of dissatisfaction caused by highly stressful domestic circumstances – including financial difficulties and inability to connect with Leyland-James – Laura Castle’s disappointment with Leyland-James has turned into hostility, as proven from her physical violence against him, culminating in his murder. “
The prosecutor said pathologist Dr. Alison Armor, who performed the autopsy, said the degree of force needed to inflict serious head injuries was “significant.”
He said she believed most of the injuries were in line with the attack and that bruises on her head and face were in line with slapping, grabbing, pinching, pushing and stabbing.
Laura Castle denies murder and cruelty to children. Scott Castle denies causing or allowing Leyland-James to die, as well as cruelty to children.
The case was adjourned until next Tuesday.
Add Comment