Darlington pair on trial following death of toddler

At an earlier hearing, Chris Stockton denied the murder of Charlie Roberts when he appeared at Teesside Crown Court.

The 38-year-old and the child’s mother, Paula Roberts, 40, are both charged with child neglect. The pair both deny the charge.

Chris Stockton with Paula Roberts and toddler Charlie Roberts (Image: Facebook)

Charlie died the day after an incident at their home in Frosterley Drive, Darlington, on Friday, January 12, which left him critically injured.

He died in hospital the following day.

Charlie Roberts (Image: Facebook)

Stockton, of Neasham Road, Darlington, remains remanded into custody until the next hearing.

See more court stories from The Northern Echo by clicking here

• Darlington offender wiped faeces on police cell camera after shoplifting arrest
• Darlington man branded a danger towards women after chasing victim to her front door

• "Shoot him" armed gang shouted after trawling streets looking for their target

Get more from The Northern Echo with a digital subscription. Get access to the latest offer for annual or monthly subscription. Click here for details.

Floral tributes to Charlie Roberts (Image: Northern Echo)

Roberts, of Surtees Street, Darlington, has been granted conditional bail.

They are both due to appear at the same court for a three-week trial front of a High Court judge Mr Justice Goss.

Durham Constabulary attended the scene with medics from the North East Ambulance Service and the Great North Air Ambulance Service, which landed on the green at Alexandra Street.

And floral tributes were placed outside the property as a mark of respect to the toddler.