Newtownabbey dad breaks down at baby murder trial

Ryan Leslie denies murdering his 14-week-old son Cameron

A father accused of murdering his baby boy told a court that he loved his son "with all his heart".

Ryan John Leslie, 26, from Ballyvessey Green, Newtownabbey, denies murdering 14-week-old Cameron and inflicting grievous bodily harm with intent.

The infant died in September 2008 as a result of a head injury.

Mr Leslie broke down in tears at Belfast Crown Court on Wednesday and said the suggestion he hurt Cameron was "mental".

When defence barrister John Orr asked the accused did he murder his son he replied: "I loved my son with all my heart. I would never have harmed my son. I loved him.

"You would have to be sick in the head to harm a child."

Trauma

Cameron was rushed to the Antrim Area Hospital, and subsequently to the Royal Victoria Hospital in Belfast after spending several days in the care of his father.

The court had previously heard medical evidence detailing how the child's death was caused by bleeding on his brain brought about by a blunt force trauma to the back of the head.

He also suffered 14 broken ribs.

Under cross-examination by prosecuting barrister Ciaran Murphy, Mr Leslie admitted that he had struck Cameron's mother Sheree Black and that he had been referred by medical professionals to attend anger management classes.

He also admitted that he attempted to take his own life the day before Cameron came to stay with him and that he did not tell Ms Black about the suicide bid.

Mr Murphy asked the accused if he had he ever lost his temper with baby Cameron, put him against the wall or smacked the back of his head off the wall.

Ryan Leslie replied: "Definitely not."

In closing his cross-examination, Mr Murphy said: "You are responsible for the death of your son I suggest to you Mr Leslie."

Mr Leslie said: "That is your suggestion but it is wrong."

The case continues.