An Australian man has admitted to manslaughter in the death of an 8-month-old baby, Dexter, who was left unattended for days during a reported drug binge by the child’s mother and her partner. Andrew William Campbell, 45, pleaded guilty in the Queensland Supreme Court in Brisbane on Monday, avoiding a seven-day trial.
The tragic incident occurred on July 21, 2019, when Dexter was found dead in an Ipswich apartment, west of Brisbane. The infant suffered severe malnutrition, dehydration, and diaper rash, with authorities describing the case as a “shocking case of neglect.” Police investigations revealed that Campbell and Dexter’s mother, Natalie Whitehead, had left the baby and another child alone while they allegedly used drugs.
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Campbell, who was living at the Raceview property where Dexter died, pleaded guilty to manslaughter, negligence causing harm, and failing to provide necessities of life. When asked for his plea in court, Campbell stated, “Guilty, Your Honor.”
Whitehead had previously pleaded guilty in October to manslaughter, neglect, and failing to provide necessaries of life. She was sentenced to nine years in prison but will be eligible for parole in June 2023 after serving three years and nine months.
Crown prosecutor Matt Le Grand described the infant’s final hours as “extremely distressing both physically and emotionally.” Campbell’s defense barrister, Damian Walsh, indicated plans to present psychological evidence before sentencing, which has yet to be scheduled. Campbell’s bail was extended, and he left the courtroom under media scrutiny.
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The case has drawn widespread attention, highlighting the devastating consequences of neglect and substance abuse. Authorities continue to emphasize the importance of child welfare and accountability in such tragic circumstances.
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