Fitness-to-plea questions raised over Leeds mum accused of murdering her three-year-old child
A mum accused of murdering her young daughter at a house in Leeds is yet to enter a plea as the courts await medical reports.
Pippa McGrath appeared at Leeds Crown Court this morning where she was expected to be arraigned, but was prevented pending the results of psychiatry assessments which will determine if she is fit to stand trial.
The body of Hope McGrath was discovered at a property in Colton in July.
Pippa McGrath, who turns 48 later this week, appeared via a video link from HMP New Hall for the brief hearing in front of Leeds’ top judge, Recorder Guy Kearl KC.
It was heard that the necessary reports would be completed in the next month.
McGrath is expected to appear again in court on October 24.
Police had been called to McGrath’s address on Austhorpe Court shortly after 11am last Wednesday, July 30, after concerns were raised about the safety of a young child.
Officers found the body of three-year-old Hope inside the property.
McGrath was taken to hospital for urgent medical treatment. She was later arrested on suspicion of murder.
A preliminary trial date had been set for February 24, 2026.
The trial, which would be before a high court judge, could last up to two weeks.