Student mother, 22, who killed her newborn baby by putting her in a cereal box moments after giving birth is jailed for life

On March 4, 2023, in Coventry, England, Jia Xin Teo, a 22-year-old student mother, gave birth to a baby girl in her flat. Following the birth, she concealed her actions by placing the newborn in a cereal box, sealing it in a plastic bag, and hiding it in a suitcase. Teo denied the charges of murder, claiming she was influenced by voices instructing her to harm the child. However, evidence presented in court confirmed that the baby was alive for hours after birth and that Teo deliberately concealed her pregnancy from friends and medical professionals alike. During the trial, prosecutor David Mason detailed the chaotic circumstances surrounding the discovery of the baby. Friends of Teo became alarmed by her condition, which led them to break into her bedroom, where they found significant amounts of blood. Despite being urged to seek medical help, Teo resisted treatment and lied to those concerned about her wellbeing. Later, she admitted to the police where she had hidden the baby after a two-day delay. The court proceedings concluded that Teo's actions were intentional, and the judge highlighted her awareness of the fatal consequences of sealing the bag containing the baby. This case brought to light the critical issues surrounding mental health and the impact of isolation on young mothers. The tragic outcome elucidates how a lack of support can lead to devastating decisions. Ultimately, Jia Xin Teo was sentenced to life imprisonment for the murder of her newborn, a stark reminder of the severe consequences of neglecting mental health and societal support systems.