Parents Convicted for Death of Son Due to Severe Neglect and Malnutrition in Birmingham
December 5, 2024The trial judge described the parents' attitude as one of 'breathtaking arrogance and cruelty,' indicating they were aware of their child's condition but chose to ignore it.
Tai Yasharahyalah and Naiyahmi Yasharahyalah have been convicted of causing or allowing the death of their three-year-old son, Abiyah, due to severe neglect and malnutrition.
Abiyah was found dead and buried in a shallow grave in his parents' garden in Handsworth, Birmingham, after suffering from severe malnutrition and multiple health issues.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Yasharahyalahs did not seek medical help for Abiyah, instead relying on herbs and superstitions.
The couple's adherence to a restrictive vegan diet and rejection of modern medicine contributed significantly to Abiyah's deteriorating health.
Prosecutors highlighted that the couple prioritized their cultural beliefs over their child's welfare, which ultimately led to his tragic death.
Abiyah suffered from severe malnutrition, rickets, anaemia, and had multiple bone fractures prior to his death, which was attributed to a respiratory illness.
Following a lengthy trial, the couple was found guilty of neglect, perverting the course of justice, and causing or allowing death, with sentencing scheduled for December 12, 2024.
Instead of seeking proper medical treatment, the couple treated Abiyah's illness with natural remedies, which ultimately led to a fatal outcome.
The Yasharahyalahs denied charges of neglect and child cruelty, claiming their intentions were not criminal, but the jury found them guilty after examining the evidence.
After Abiyah's death, his parents embalmed his body with frankincense and myrrh, keeping it in their bed for eight days before burying him without notifying authorities.
Despite multiple visits from police, confusion over their address prevented Abiyah from being identified as missing until his remains were discovered.
Summary based on 6 sources
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Sources
The Guardian • Dec 5, 2024
Couple starved and buried son, 3, after setting up their own ‘kingdom’ in BirminghamThe Independent • Dec 5, 2024
Parents of toddler embalmed and buried his body in garden after failing to seek medical helpThe Mirror • Dec 5, 2024
Parents who buried son, 3, in garden allowed death after 'breathtaking cruelty'The Mirror • Dec 5, 2024
Toddler's horrifying garden grave after vegan parents 'severely malnourish' son