A mother, Jacinta Beth Sells, has appeared in the Western Australian Magistrates Court facing accusations of murdering her seven-month-old son in what is being investigated as a domestic violence-related incident. The 31-year-old is alleged to have committed the act early on Monday morning at their family home in Balcatta, a suburb in Perth’s northern region.
Emergency services received a call around 3am regarding a serious assault. Upon arrival, they discovered the infant unresponsive, suffering from critical injuries, and he was pronounced dead at the scene. Reports suggest that the child had sustained stab wounds, and it has been indicated that Sells was under the influence of drugs at the time of the incident. It is believed that the horrifying event unfolded in front of other family members, including a 13-year-old girl.
Sells, described as a slight woman with long dark hair and a noticeably gaunt appearance, appeared composed in court but visibly distressed as she sat with her head lowered, flanked by security personnel. During the brief hearing, she stood to acknowledge the charge against her before being remanded and subsequently removed from the courtroom.
WA Police Commissioner Col Blanch referred to the situation as “horrific” and expressed sorrow over the tragic circumstances surrounding the case. Following her court appearance, Sells was taken into custody and is scheduled to return to the Stirling Garden Magistrates Court on August 20.
Support services are readily available for those in distress, with Lifeline’s contact number being 13 11 14 and that of beyondblue at 1300 22 4636. Additionally, the National Sexual Assault, Domestic and Family Violence Counselling Service can be reached at 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732).