A MUM and her boyfriend have been charged with murdering her nine-year-old son and a string of child cruelty offences.

Alfie Steele was discovered at the family home in Droitwich, Worcs, on February 18 last year.

He was rushed to hospital in a critical condition but couldn't be saved and died shortly after.

His mum Carla Scott, 34, and her partner Dirk Howell, 39, have now been charged with murder, causing or allowing the death of a child and child cruelty.

The couple are accused of "wilfully assaulting, ill-treating, neglecting and abandoning" Alfie in the run up to his death.

Alfie was said to be at a "significant risk of serious physical harm" and Scott either "caused his death by her own unlawful act" or "failed to take steps" to protect him.

Both also face a charge of cruelty to a person aged under 16 between July 13, 2019 and February 18, 2021.

They are due to appear at Worcester Crown Court on February 25.

Tributes flooded in for football and rugby-mad Alfie following the tragedy.

His grandad Paul Scott said: “We are completely devastated by the loss of Alfie, he had a smile that would melt butter.

“He was intelligent and inquisitive, and was courageous like a lion; he was a good Christian boy who was full of God.

“He would never shy away from anything and had no fear.

'BRIGHT BOY'

“He loved Worcester Warriors Rugby Club and I will always have my lovely memories of taking him to watch Arsenal matches.

“I would like to take the opportunity to thank everyone connected with the investigation, everyone has been very professional and the media have been respectful and allowed us time as a family to grieve.

“Thank you for the continued support from the community, who have sent teddies and well wishes.”

Alfie’s brother and sisters said: “Alfie was a bright boy, and he was always creative and imaginative.

“We loved to watch videos and play football with him and we are going to miss telling him to shut up at night.

“We love him and he is always going to be in our hearts.”

Source: Read Full Article