Details have emerged regarding the severe mistreatment of a newborn baby as a mother faced consequences for her involvement in her son’s tragic death.
Kristie Lee Willmot’s infant, Michael Willmot, tragically lost his life in 2021 at just 37 days old. Initially, Willmot and her then partner, Robert Alan Gee, faced murder charges after the infant was discovered unresponsive in a Logan car park in 2021. However, they later pleaded guilty to lesser charges during their recent court appearance.
Willmot admitted to committing cruelty against children under 16 between June 10-15, 2021, while Gee pleaded guilty to one count of manslaughter. Reports indicate that Gee had nothing further to add when questioned in court.
According to court testimonies, Willmot left her baby in Gee’s care for a brief period while she went to obtain drugs for a friend at his caravan park in Logan. During this time, Michael became agitated, and Gee violently shook the baby before tossing him onto a couch. Subsequently, Gee messaged Willmot, falsely claiming that Michael was well and asleep.
As the days passed, Michael’s health deteriorated significantly. He exhibited high fever, refusal to eat, and signs of distress. Instead of seeking medical help, Willmot recorded the symptoms on her phone and deliberated with Gee via text about the situation.
Willmot expressed regret in a text message, acknowledging that she should have sought medical assistance for Michael sooner. Tragically, on June 14, 2021, Michael ceased breathing and was pronounced dead by paramedics, four days after the incident. An autopsy revealed severe injuries consistent with violent shaking.
The Crown prosecutor stated that Willmot’s negligence as a mother led to harm during that period. Although she cooperated with authorities, Willmot concealed the fact that she was procuring drugs for a friend at the time of the incident.
While Willmot was not directly responsible for her child’s demise, the court held her accountable for failing to prevent the tragedy. Justice Martin Burns noted that although there was no evidence suggesting Willmot was present during the abuse by Gee, she should have recognized the severity of Michael’s condition as it worsened.
Willmot received a four-year suspended jail sentence, having already served time in custody. Gee’s sentencing is scheduled for November 13.