WOMAN JAILED FOR ATTEMPTED MURDER OF TODDLER VIA MEDICATION

Laura Docherty, 35, formerly of Glenrothes, has been sentenced to a minimum of six years in jail following her conviction for attempting to murder a toddler by repeatedly administering adult medication to the child. The High Court in Edinburgh imposed an order for lifelong restriction, meaning Docherty must serve at least six years before becoming eligible to seek parole. A jury unanimously found Docherty guilty in December following trial, despite her denial of the charge. Judge Michael O'Grady KC stated that "the word 'wicked' is an old fashioned word, but there are times when no other word will suffice."

Docherty administered antidepressant and painkilling drugs not prescribed for the victim between April 2021 and February 2023 at an address in Edinburgh, a ward at the Royal Hospital for Children and Young People, and elsewhere. The child, who was two years old when the abuse began, suffered seizures and episodes of reduced consciousness as a result of the medication. The victim required resuscitation, hospital admission, placement on a ventilator, and underwent medical investigations and procedures. The judge said Docherty had committed the crime for "attention and drama" and noted that she denied guilt, accepted no responsibility, and showed no remorse or insight.

The judge told Docherty that when she is released, if she is ever released, such a decision will be made by the Scottish parole board. He stated she would likely spend "a significant period of years in custody" before that determination. The lifelong restriction order means Docherty remains subject to supervision and conditions following any eventual release from prison.