Scottish woman sentenced to minimum six years for poisoning toddler

A jury at Edinburgh's High Court found Laura Docherty guilty of attempting to murder a toddler by repeatedly giving her antidepressants and pain-relieving drugs not prescribed for the child. The assaults, carried out between April 2021 and February 2023 at various locations including the victim's home and the Royal Hospital for Children and Young People, caused seizures, reduced consciousness and required emergency resuscitation and ventilation.

Judge Michael O'Grady KC sentenced Docherty to a minimum of six years in prison, added a lifelong restriction order, and referred any future release decision to the Scottish parole board. In sentencing, the judge said the crime was motivated by a need for "attention and drama" and criticized the defendant for denying responsibility and lacking remorse. Defence lawyer Simon Gilbride argued for a substantial fixed term followed by community supervision, describing the behaviour as "extraordinary" and urging the offender to address her actions for any future prospects.