The parents of a disabled teenager denied causing her death by allowing her to become morbidly obese. Alan Titford and Sarah Jane Lloyd-Jones appeared at Mold Crown Court on Friday to face charges in connection with the death of their daughter.
At a plea hearing 44-year-old Titford and 39-year-old Lloyd-Jones, both of Newtown in Powys, stood together in the dock and told a judge they were not guilty of manslaughter. They also denied an alternative second charge of causing or allowing the death of a child or vulnerable person, NorthWalesLive reports.
It is alleged that, between March 24 and October 11, 2020, they failed to ensure the dietary needs of their daughter, 16-year-old Kaylea Louise Titford, were met which led to morbid obesity. The couple are also accused of not making sure she got enough exercise, was in a hygienic condition, had a safe and hygienic environment, her physical health was maintained, or that reasonable medical help was sought, the charge states.
Ms Titford was found dead at her Powys home in October 2020. An inquest opening at Pontypridd Coroners' Court confirmed that the teenager suffered from "multiple medical issues" and was mainly bedbound and immobile.
Judge Rhys Rowlands fixed their upcoming trial before for January 16, 2023. He was also informed that the case, to be overseen by Mrs Justice Jefford, may run for five weeks in total as opposed to the previous estimate of four weeks.
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