Man Found Guilty of Shaking Toddler to Death While Babysitting
Michael Daymond, 27, has been found guilty of killing two-year-old Maya Chappell by shaking her to death. The jury at Teesside Crown Court delivered a unanimous verdict, confirming Maya died from fatal head injuries caused by Daymond while he was supposed to be caring for her.
Maya’s Mother Also Convicted for Failing to Protect
Maya’s mother, Dana Carr, was also found guilty of allowing her daughter’s death. Despite noticing bruises on Maya, Carr failed to act or raise the alarm, leading to her conviction alongside Daymond.
Shocking Details Emerge from Tragic Incident
- The tragedy happened on September 28 in their home at Shotton Colliery when Maya suddenly fell gravely ill.
- While paramedics fought to save her, Daymond was busy on the phone, worried about his benefits payments being stopped.
- Maya was rushed to the Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle but never regained consciousness and later died.
- Medical experts confirmed her fatal head injuries resulted from violent shaking.
Bruises Covered Up as Abuse Went Unchecked
Daymond had only recently moved in after dating Carr for a few weeks. While Carr was at work, he was left alone with Maya and inflicted repeated injuries. Bruises appeared on Maya’s face and body. To hide the abuse, the couple pulled her out of nursery.
Family raised concerns about the bruises but were misled by Daymond and Carr, who claimed the injuries were self-inflicted. Daymond never testified and lied repeatedly to cover up his cruelty.
Despite knowing about the bruises, Carr did nothing to protect Maya and even lied to family members. She failed to tell doctors about the visible injuries during a visit for an ear infection, hiding them under clothing.
Investigation Reveals Hours of Abuse
Detective Superintendent Chris Barker of Durham Constabulary, who led the probe, described Maya as “defenceless” and said she lived “in constant fear” of Daymond’s abuse. The fatal injuries occurred during a four-hour period when Daymond was alone with her.
Barker praised the jury for seeing through Daymond’s “abhorrent behaviour” and delivering justice. He said the verdict won’t bring Maya back but hopes it offers some closure for her loved ones.
Sentencing and Support Information
Daymond and Carr will be sentenced at Teesside Crown Court on Friday, December 22.
If you’re worried about a child’s welfare, contact Durham Constabulary, your local children’s social care team, or the NSPCC immediately.
