A mother from Billingham has been convicted of murdering her eight-year-old autistic son. Louise Cameron administered morphine to Rhys and laced his blackcurrant juice with methadone, leaving a chilling note for her family stating she was 'not dying without him'.
Details of the Crime
Over the weekend of September 13 and 14, Cameron left the note for her family before carrying out the act. Teesside Crown Court heard that Cameron's sister became concerned after failing to reach her that weekend. She visited the house on Monday, September 15, ahead of a planned call from Cameron's social worker.
Upon arrival, the sister discovered Cameron lying in bed next to Rhys, who was already dead. The jury was told that Cameron appeared 'out of it' and may have attempted to take a fatal overdose herself.
Background and Strain
A family member informed police that Cameron had been under considerable strain during a pub meal the previous Friday, when Rhys, who was autistic, 'had a meltdown'. The relative revealed that Cameron had hoped to speak with her social worker during a visit that week but claimed the professional had 'left early' when Rhys was crying 'because the television wasn't working'.
At the University Hospital of North Tees in Stockton, Cameron reportedly told staff: 'I've just murdered Rhys. I didn't want to have to stab him or drown him or hurt him.'
Verdict and Sentencing
The jury took less than an hour on Thursday morning to reach their verdict. Judge Heather Williams confirmed that Cameron will be sentenced on Thursday, September 18.
