Laura Docherty Jailed Minimum 6 Years for Drugging Toddler, Given Lifelong Restriction Order
Updated
Updated · bbc.co.uk · Aug 17
Laura Docherty Jailed Minimum 6 Years for Drugging Toddler, Given Lifelong Restriction Order
3 articles · Updated · bbc.co.uk · Aug 17
Summary
A High Court judge in Edinburgh ordered Laura Docherty, 35, to serve at least six years after she was convicted of attempting to murder a toddler by repeatedly giving her adult medication.
Between April 2021 and February 2023, Docherty administered antidepressant and painkilling drugs not prescribed for the child, causing seizures, reduced consciousness, resuscitation and ventilation.
Judge Michael O'Grady said the crime was committed for "attention and drama," adding Docherty showed no remorse and on one occasion came within a "hair's breadth" of killing the girl.
The court also imposed an order for lifelong restriction, meaning any release will depend on the Scottish parole board after what the judge said would likely be a significant period in custody.
Docherty had denied the charge at trial in December 2025 but was unanimously found guilty of assault and attempted murder at addresses in Edinburgh and at the Royal Hospital for Children and Young People.