Parents charged in one-year-old's starvation death in St Helens
Parents charged in baby's starvation death in St Helens

Adam Johnson, 26, and Kylie Smith, 25, both from St Helens, have been charged in connection with the death of their one-year-old son, Maero Johnson. The charges include causing or allowing the death of a child, child neglect, and possession of cannabis, a controlled Class B drug.

Incident details

In August 2023, police were called after the infant was taken to hospital, where he died despite medical efforts. A second child in the household was also found to be neglected and underdeveloped. A Home Office post-mortem examination confirmed that Maero died of ketonic hypoglycaemia and severe malnutrition.

Legal proceedings

The parents are due to appear at Liverpool Magistrates Court on Thursday, August 13. Merseyside Police have not released further details about the case at this time.

Wide Pickt banner — collaborative shopping lists app for Telegram, phone mockup with grocery list

Community impact

The case has shocked the local community in St Helens, highlighting the importance of vigilance in child welfare. Authorities urge anyone with concerns about a child's safety to report it to social services or the police.

Pickt after-article banner — collaborative shopping lists app with family illustration