A woman has been convicted of causing the death of her three-month-old infant daughter, who suffered severe injuries including brain trauma, a broken leg, and broken ribs. The mother, Nazli Merthoca, along with her partner Herbert Kalanzi, faced trial at the Old Bailey where it was revealed that the child, Kaylani Kalanzi, had been under the watch of social services since before her birth and was on a child protection plan.
During the trial, the prosecution emphasized that the couple prioritized their turbulent relationship over the well-being of their child. While Merthoca was found guilty of manslaughter rather than murder, Kalanzi was acquitted of involvement in Kaylani’s death. The court heard that the infant had been prematurely born and had a prolonged stay in a neonatal care unit before being entrusted to her parents’ care.
Despite efforts by social services to support the family, the prosecution argued that the dysfunctional relationship between the parents made any intervention ineffective. The tragic incident occurred when the defendants called emergency services after Kaylani stopped breathing, but Merthoca failed to disclose crucial information about the child’s injuries. Staff at the hospital observed Merthoca becoming defensive and claiming unfair blame.
Both defendants denied causing harm to Kaylani at the residence they were staying in at the time. Merthoca, visibly emotional, was remanded into custody pending sentencing. The court noted the complex circumstances surrounding the case, including substance abuse and a troubled relationship, which ultimately led to the untimely death of the infant.
