Mother Sentenced to Life Imprisonment for Drowning Her Two Sons in Psychotic State

Kara Alexander, a 47-year-old woman from Dagenham, East London, has received a life sentence for the tragic drowning of her two sons, Elijah and Marley. The incident occurred in December 2022, and a Kingston Crown Court ruled her guilty of the murders, which transpired in the family bathroom. In court, Judge Bennathan sentenced her to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 21 years and an additional 252 days.

The heartbreaking events unfolded on December 16, 2022, when the boys' father found them lifeless in their shared bunk bed, dressed in their pajamas, after being unable to reach their mother. Following the discovery, Alexander fled but was apprehended shortly thereafter. An autopsy revealed that both children had died from drowning or suffocation. Although Alexander maintained her innocence, arguing that the boys drowned while she slept, the judge found evidence against her claims.

During the sentencing, the judge noted that Alexander had been under the influence of cannabis, specifically "skunk," on the night of the incident. He pointed out that her mental state raised concerns regarding her intention to harm her children, especially given that she had temporarily submerged them in water. Moreover, despite appearing to be a loving mother in the past, the evidence pointed to a deteriorating mental health condition exacerbated by drug use.

The judge also reflected on the responsibility of those around Alexander, mentioning that friends were aware of her cannabis issues and previous psychotic episode yet did not intervene. He expressed that Alexander would suffer from the consequences of her actions for the rest of her life. In closing, he warned about the dangers of strong cannabis strains leading to serious mental health issues, a sentiment echoed by Detective Chief Inspector Paul Waller, who called it a deeply heartbreaking case for the family left behind.