Mum admits killing seven-year-old child in Haverfordwest

Papaipit Linse, 43, of Upper Market Street, was accused of killing Louis Linse in Haverfordwest on January 10.

The defendant denied a charge of murder when she appeared at Swansea Crown Court, but pleaded guilty instead to manslaughter on the grounds of diminished responsibility.

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Prosecutor Caroline Rees KC said that the Crown Prosecution Service had reviewed the case after a psychiatric report had been prepared on the defendant.

She said that the plea to manslaughter was acceptable, and a trial would not be sought on the murder charge.

Judge Paul Thomas KC described the case as “very sensitive and tragic”.

He adjourned the case for sentence on December 13, and remanded Linse back into custody until that date.

Dyfed-Powys Police and paramedics were called to an address on Upper Market Street shortly before 10.45am on Wednesday, January 10 when Linse herself phoned the emergency services following the death or her son, who was found in his bed.

The force later confirmed that officers were investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of a seven-year-old child.

HM Coroner for Pembrokeshire Paul Bennett opened the inquest into the death of Louis Linse on January 19. The inquest was adjourned pending the result of the police investigation.

Senior investigating officer Detective Chief Inspector Gary Williams, of Dyfed-Powys Police, said: “This was a tragic incident, which saw officers respond to the death of a young child at the hands of his mother.

“Despite arriving at an extremely challenging and emotive scene, all those present acted with professionalism and care, with the united goal of carrying out a thorough investigation into the circumstances.

“My team and I have worked tirelessly since January to hold Linse responsible for Louis’ death, and to ensure justice is brought. Our thoughts remain with all those who knew and loved Louis.”