A murderer of a 2-year-old girl is described as cowardly and covers his ears during a court hearing about the brutal attack.

It was a tragic and heart-wrenching case that gripped the community of Dungannon, Co Tyrone. The life of two-year-old Ali Jayden Doyle was cut short in a brutal and senseless act of violence at the hands of her mother's on-off boyfriend, Darryn John Armstrong. The court heard that on August 6, 2021, Armstrong had caused Ali horrific injuries to her head while they were at a house in Park Avenue.

The details of Ali's injuries were described as "horrifically severe," leaving no doubt that she had suffered a traumatic and painful death. Armstrong, who had a history of domestic abuse, was sentenced to a minimum of 20 years in prison for the murder of Ali. During the trial, it was revealed that Ali's mother, Jade Dempsey, had left her in Armstrong's care, despite being aware of his violent tendencies.

Armstrong initially tried to shift the blame onto Ali's younger brother, claiming that the injuries were caused by a toy thrown by the child. However, he later changed his story, stating that he had no recollection of the events that led to Ali's death as he was under the influence of drugs at the time. Despite his attempts to deny responsibility, Armstrong pleaded guilty to murder and was given a life sentence.

Throughout the sentencing hearing, Armstrong showed no remorse for his actions, with his head bowed and his hands covering his ears. The judge, Mr Justice McAlinden, noted this lack of empathy, stating that Armstrong had shown "not one scintilla" of remorse. He also stated that the extent of the force used to cause Ali's injuries was consistent with an intention to kill her.

Ali's mother, Jade Dempsey, also faced charges for her role in the tragedy. She pleaded guilty to wilful neglect, as she had left Ali and her brother in Armstrong's care, despite being aware of the risks. The judge acknowledged that her actions had breached the social services' child protection plan, but he also recognized that she was an "exceptionally vulnerable individual." Instead of a custodial sentence, Dempsey was given a probation order to ensure she received the necessary support and therapy.

Outside the courtroom, Ali's father, Dylan Doyle, expressed the family's pain and grief. He spoke of the loss of his "beautiful little girl" and the devastating impact her death had on their lives. He also questioned the role of social services, who were meant to protect Ali but had ultimately failed her.

Detective Chief Inspector Anthony Kelly of the Police Service of Northern Ireland also commented on the tragic case, emphasizing the impact of Armstrong's actions on Ali's family. He stated that Armstrong's "cowardly and sickening" act had taken an innocent life and caused unimaginable pain for Ali's loved ones.

The community of Dungannon came together to mourn Ali's passing, with a vigil held in her memory. It was a reminder of the young life that was taken too soon and the impact it had on those who knew and loved her. As Ali's father said, "She will always be in our hearts," and her memory will never be forgotten.

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