A mother has been sentenced to life imprisonment for the murder of her 19-day-old daughter, whom she attempted to blame on another child. Nicole Blain, 30, was convicted following a trial at the High Court in Glasgow and must serve a minimum of 19 years before parole eligibility.
Baby Thea Jane Wilson sustained catastrophic injuries, including three skull fractures, brain damage, and bleeding behind the eyes, after a violent attack at Blain's flat in Greenock, Inverclyde, on July 14, 2023. The injuries were consistent with violent shaking and repeated slamming against a hard surface.
In an attempt to conceal her actions, Blain claimed she woke from a nap to find her daughter stricken on the floor and alleged another child present had caused the injuries. Prosecutors dismissed this as 'nonsense', and a pathologist ruled out the possibility that the baby could have been fatally injured by a child.
Judge Lord Scott imposed the life sentence, stating he needed more information before determining the punishment part. Blain, who had been on bail, wept as she was led to the cells. Baby Thea was described as 'perfect' at birth on June 25, 2023.
Police Scotland confirmed the investigation, with Detective Chief Inspector Laura Young expressing gratitude to all involved. Blain will now face the consequences of her actions.
