A woman has been locked up for life after brutally killing her two-month-old daughter in a heartbreaking West Bromwich case that has shocked the nation.
Shocking Injuries Reveal Baby’s Horrific Death
Zara Arsalan, 31, was found guilty last month of murdering her baby girl, Harleen, in 2020. On July 23, emergency services rushed to her West Bromwich home after Harleen was reported unresponsive following a “fall” from her mother’s lap.
Paramedics found the infant struggling to breathe with severe head injuries. Despite being rushed to hospital, little Harleen tragically died the next day.
A chilling post-mortem revealed multiple skull fractures, bleeding on the brain, broken ribs, and a fractured collarbone. Experts confirmed these injuries could not have come from a simple fall. Evidence pointed to violent shaking and being slammed against a hard surface.
Life Behind Bars: Minimum 19 Years for Baby Killer
Arsalan was arrested, charged, and sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum 19-year term. The verdict brought some justice in a case that stunned the West Midlands community.
Police Speak Out on Disturbing Case
Detective Chief Inspector Phil Poole of the Homicide Unit said: “This is an incredibly tragic case. Harleen was only two months old when she died at the hands of the person who should have been doing everything to keep her safe.
“Arsalan has never taken responsibility. She repeatedly lied despite overwhelming evidence against her.
“I want to thank all officers involved who were deeply affected by this investigation. They worked tirelessly to get justice for Harleen and her family.
“I hope today’s sentence finally brings Harleen’s family some peace.”