Family of baby allegedly stabbed to death by mother Jacinta Beth Sells say murder could have been prevented

The family of a seven-month-old baby boy allegedly stabbed to death by his own mother in Balcatta claim the Department of Communities failed to keep the child safe and prevent his death. Jacinta Beth Sells, 31, is accused of murdering the infant at a Campion Avenue home early on Monday morning. A 13-year-old girl phoned police. A spokeswoman for Sell’s family told The West the mother had been struggling in recent months with parenting difficulties, her mental health, and was allegedly subjected to domestic violence. They claim she had been receiving regular visits from the Department of Communities — including just a few days prior to her son’s alleged murder. “We met with the Department of Communities yesterday and we told them we were disappointed that they failed,” the family spokeswoman said. “We affirmed our disappointment in the prior management and support. They visited her on the Thursday or Friday. We asked for the case notes from the visit, and they couldn’t produce any. “She (Jacinta) was doing the best she could in circumstances that most people couldn’t imagine - she needed help and was never given the support that she deserved.” Neighbours of Sells previously reported multiple loud disturbances which resulted in police attending the home. They also claimed the mother had been dealing with several issues in recent months. The Department of Communities refused say whether it had been in contact with Ms Sells or her family with a spokesperson adding: ”As this matter is before the courts, the Department won’t be providing comment.” The Minister for Child Protection, and Prevention of Family and Domestic Violence, Jessica Stojkovski was asked whether she thought her department could have done more to protect the child, and whether she would conduct a transparent review in the department’s engagement with the family or request the state coroner conduct an inquest. Minister Stojkovski did not respond. Instead, A State Government spokesperson said in a statement: “As this matter is before the courts it would be inappropriate to provide further comment. This is a tragic case that has had a devastating impact on the affected family and local community.” Doubts over the effectiveness of the Department of Communities and its handling of child safety cases surfaced in April last year when a 10-year-old Indigenous boy took his own life while in the state’s care. The child had been living with relatives as approved by authorities. His parents, who cannot be identified due to legal reasons, said they had 26 different case managers from the department while their son was in care, and couldn’t get clarity on his health. The Department of Communities refused to comment on the boy’s case and said “those impacted will be or have been offered supports through Communities”. “The death of any child or young person is a tragedy, which has a devastating impact on the families, friends and communities involved,” a spokesperson said.