Alfie Steele trial: Jury retires in fifth week of murder trial

Howell, 41, and Alfie's mum Carla Scott, 35, are both accused of murdering the child at the family home in Vashon Drive on February 18, 2021. 

The jury has retired after hearing five weeks of evidence in the case at Coventry Crown Court. 

After his summary of the case, the Honorable Mr Justice Wall KC told the jury at 11am this morning (June 9) there would be no more evidence and it was time for them to begin deliberations. 

BOY: Alfie Steele

The judge told the jury there was no time pressure on them to reach a verdict adding they had listened to a serious case which they would want to give the time they thought it deserved. 

In closing speeches, prosecutor Michelle Heeley KC told the jury: "Both defendants wanted to seriously harm Alfie that day.

"They lost their temper, killed him. They then began the cover-up."

TRIAL: Carla Scott (Image: SWNS/West Mercia Police)

But Rachel Brand KC, for Scott, asked the jury to take out the emotion and focus on the evidence. 

Ms Brand said there was "no reliable evidence" Scott had participated in a violent attack on the boy, or encouraged or assisted Howell in an attack before Alfie's death. 

TRIAL: Dirk Howell (Image: West Mercia Police)

And in his closing speech Alistair Williamson KC, for Howell, said although Howell was "not very nice" - that didn't make him guilty of Alfie's murder.

Howell, of Princip Street, Birmingham, previously admitted child cruelty against other children but denies murder, manslaughter, cruelty or causing or allowing the death of Alfie.

Carla Scott, 35, denies murder, manslaughter, causing or allowing the death of Alfie and child cruelty offences against Alfie and other children.

The trial continues.