Two deny murdering eight-week-old baby

A man and woman have denied murdering an eight-week-old baby.

Lincolnshire Police said the baby died in hospital after officers were called to an address in Bourne, Lincolnshire, on 31 October 2023.

Liam Neve, 26, of Spinney Close, Grimoldby, Louth, and Lauren Murgatroyd, 26, of Novak Place, Morecambe, Lancashire, were charged in June with the murder of a child aged under one.

Neve and Murgatroyd both pleaded not guilty to murdering the infant, who cannot be named for legal reasons, at Lincoln Crown Court earlier.

During the hearing before Judge Simon Hirst, Neve, wearing a black T-shirt and dark trousers, spoke to confirm his name and date of birth.

Murgatroyd, wearing a black hoodie and grey jogging bottoms, also spoke to confirm her name and date of birth.

They both denied a number of other charges relating to the investigation, which are alleged to have occurred between late August 2023 and 31 October 2023.

Both defendants pleaded not guilty to two charges of child cruelty, two charges of causing grievous bodily harm with intent, two charges of causing or allowing a child to suffer serious physical injury and one count of causing or allowing the death of a child.

No bail applications were made and both defendants were remanded into custody until their next court appearance.

Hirst adjourned the case for a trial at the court on 7 June 2027.

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