We recently heard a shocking report of child neglect, and unfortunately, a similar story has made the headlines today.
A woman tried to ‘sell’ a child in the street for £1 million, a court has heard today.
Claire Boyle appeared before Ayr Sheriff Court in the UK charged with child neglect, after attempting to sell a 10-month-old boy in the town.
Eye witnesses saw Ms Boyle pushing a pram into Ayr’s High Street, before proceeding to take the baby out and shout at him in the street.
The court heard how passers-by were shocked when the 28-year-old, who was under the influence at the time, then attempted to sell the child, starting the bidding at £2,000.
A representative for the prosecution said: “Two witnesses were outside the Santander bank when the accused approached. The accused named prices from £2,000 up to £1 million. She then stated that she would not sell the child.”
It is also claimed that she told the child: “You’re looking for attention, you’re not getting it.”
Police were called to the scene after concerned passers-by raised concerns for the child’s welfare, but Ms Boyle had left by the time they arrived.
However, having received a tip-off from a member of the public, the authorities found the child lying in his pram unattended in a nearby close.
Ms Boyle’s lawyer told the court: “She has had difficulties in her life. She was on a drug programme and was tested regularly…She accepts she had taken a substance and accepts she behaved quite badly towards the child.”
The court sentenced her to be kept under supervision for two years, and she was also put on a six months’ curfew.
