The Daily Star Ireland
A father from County Armagh has been sentenced to at least 20 years in prison for the murder of his infant son, who suffered severe brain injuries. The 29-year-old man was convicted of causing “catastrophic” harm to the child, who was just 13 weeks old when he was first hospitalized in November 2015. The baby, identified as Lewis Oliver Rowland, died three years later due to complications linked to the injuries inflicted by his father.
The trial revealed that the child was brought to Craigavon Area Hospital by his parents before being transferred to Belfast’s Royal Victoria Hospital due to the severity of his condition. Medical examinations confirmed that the infant had a brain bleed, a spinal injury, a fractured rib, and multiple bruises across his body. Experts concluded that these injuries were consistent with a violent shaking episode.
Despite knowing their son was in distress, both parents delayed seeking medical attention and later pleaded guilty to child cruelty for failing to act immediately. The injuries left Lewis permanently disabled, unable to walk or talk, and reliant on a feeding tube. He was later placed in foster care, where he passed away in October 2018 while undergoing surgery.
Sentencing and Judge’s Remarks
Craig Rowland, found guilty of murder last October, was sentenced at Belfast Crown Court. The judge noted the father’s continued refusal to accept responsibility and his complete lack of empathy. He must serve at least 20 years before being eligible for parole.
The child’s mother, Laura Graham, was also sentenced but received a lighter punishment. The court heard that she has a mild learning disability and a low level of intelligence. Given her limited culpability—having been asleep when the violent act occurred—she was sentenced to three years of probation and ordered to complete 100 hours of community service.
The judge also highlighted that both parents declined an opportunity to stay at the hospital with their son when he was critically ill and later chose not to be present during his final moments.
