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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
National
Kelly-Ann Mills

Mum admits killing 'wonderful' son, 2, found with horror injuries at home

A woman has admitted killing her two-year-old son after previously pleading not guilty to murdering the boy.

Natalie Steele, 32, pleaded guilty to the manslaughter of her son Reid by reason of diminished responsibility at Cardiff Crown Court.

The toddler died at University Hospital of Wales in Cardiff on August 12 after being found critically injured at a house in Bridgend, South Wales.

Michael Jones QC, prosecuting, told Cardiff Crown Court the plea was acceptable after the Crown had received reports from two psychiatrists into Steele's mental health.

"For the reasons set out in the reports of Dr Huckle and Dr Wynne that while she is fit to plead and stand trial, at the time she was suffering from a psychosis and psychotic depression.

"I can confirm that the plea tendered today is acceptable to the prosecution."

Natalie Steele has pleaded guilty to manslaughter (MEDIA WALES)

Judge Michael Fitton QC said he agreed with the position adopted by the Crown and fixed a sentencing date of May 3.

"I entirely support the view taken," he said.

"I make it clear I have seen the reports prepared by both experts, for each of whom I have the highest regard and who deal comprehensively with the tragic circumstances behind the commission of the offence.

"The nature and extent of her illness is obvious to anyone who has begun to read those reports."

The boy was found with critical injuries (WALES NEWS SERVICE)

Steele, of Parkwood Heights, Broadlands, Bridgend, was remanded into custody until sentencing on May 3.

The judge told her: "I have read the reports and I understand why the prosecution have accepted the plea of manslaughter by reason of diminished responsibility.

"There is a lot of work for you with the psychiatrists and I would urge you to fully co-operate."

Paying tribute last year, Reid's family described him as a "super-happy, gorgeous, wonderful and intelligent" child.

His family said: "He was a super, super-happy, gorgeous, wonderful and intelligent little boy who lit up everyone's lives.

"He loved the garden and the beach, picking raspberries and going for walks collecting shells.

"He was a very chatty little boy and would happily speak to anyone."

The toddler could count to ten in three different languages and would ask people if they were OK because he cared for everything and everyone.

His family said his favourite things included Bob the Builder, Winnie the Pooh, the beach, diggers, and nature.

They said: "We miss him with every fibre of our beings. Reid never experienced evil or pain in his little life, he was so adored by all of us. We miss him every single day.

"Sadly, he lost his fight on August 12. We cannot put into words how utterly amazing the staff were at the ward.

"They allowed Reid's grandparents to stay overnight to be close to him and supplied a care package for them including a T-shirt, toothbrush etc.

"They allowed all six of us to visit him in pairs whilst he fought for his life.

"We will never be able to express our appreciation of how amazing they were."

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