Tania Clarence appeared before Wimbledon Magistrates’ Court this morning.
The mother accused of murdering her three children in New Malden appeared before Wimbledon Magistrates’ Court this morning.
Scotland Yard confirmed on Wednesday that Tania Kim Clarence, 42, had been charged for the murders of three of her four children.
Olivia, 4, and twin 3-year-old boys, Ben and Max, were found at their Thetford Road address on Tuesday evening.
Weeping as she entered the court at 10.30, Mrs Clarence was barely able to speak as she gave her name, age and address.
Before the short preliminary hearing her husband, Gary, 43, was embraced by friends and family inside the courtroom, and also broke down in tears as Mrs Clarence’s charges were read out.
All three children were severely disabled, suffering from a rare genetic condition known as spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), otherwise known as floppy baby syndrome.
Mrs Clarence will remain in police custody until a preliminary hearing at the Old Bailey on May 9, preceded by a bail application on April 29.
Speaking for the defence, Jim Sturman thanked the press for their respect towards the family in handling the case so far, and hoped this would continue.
Mr Sturman had delayed proceedings for half an hour to allow him time to speak to Mrs. Clarence properly.
Photo courtesy of Ian Britton, with thanks.
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