A MAN will serve a minimum of 20 years behind bars for the murder of his young son.
Craig Rowland, of Millington Park in Portadown, appeared at Laganside Court today in connection with the murder of his son Lewis Oliver Rowland.
Lewis was just three months old when he was admitted to hospital in November 2015 with “catastrophic injuries”.
An investigation into the injuries later turned into a murder inquiry when Lewis died on October 20, 2018 at the age of three.
“Baby Lewis, at just three months old, was admitted to hospital in November 2015 with catastrophic injuries,” PSNI Detective Chief Inspector Kerrie Foreman said today.
Craig Rowland appeared at Laganside Crown Court today“Distressingly, expert medical examinations concluded that baby Lewis had been violently shaken, the ferocity of which left him with a permanent brain injury,” she added.
“The injuries, inflicted by his father, led to his subsequent and untimely death.”
Rowland, 30, who was given a life sentence last October after being found guilty of murder, was told today he will serve a minimum of 20 years in prison.
Lewis’ mother, Laura Graham, also appeared before court today, having previously pleaded guilty to child cruelty.
The 32-year-old was sentenced to three years’ probation and 100 hours of community service.
“Both Rowland and Lewis’ mother Laura Graham had previously pleaded guilty to child cruelty in 2023,” Det Chf Insp Foreman explained.
“This related to their failure to seek urgent medical attention for their baby, opting to walk to hospital rather than calling an ambulance.
“Craig Rowland was found guilty of murder by a jury in October 2024,” she added.
“And, today, working in partnership with the Public Prosecution Service, he has finally been held accountable.
“This, however, remains a totally tragic and distressing case, in which the most cowardly and brutal of actions have taken a young, defenceless and innocent life.”
After Lewis sustained his initial injuries he was taken into the care of a foster family.
“The care, attention and kindness, which this family gave to Lewis, are in stark contrast to the cruelty demonstrated by his own father,” Det Chf Insp Foreman said.
“My thoughts are with the foster family and those loved ones who continue to grieve, and indeed with all who have been touched by the sadness of the murder of young Lewis Rowland,” she added.