Woman remanded over drugs death

A woman has been remanded in custody charged with the manslaughter of a 14-year-girl who died from a suspected drugs overdose.

Jennifer Harpley, of San Francisco Walk, Carlton Colville, near Lowestoft, Suffolk, died in hospital on Monday.

Claire Fowles, also known as Claire Jillings, from Chaukers Crescent in Lowestoft, Suffolk, appeared before magistrates in the town on Tuesday.

The 22-year-old is also accused of supplying heroin, methadone and diazepam to Jennifer.

Man bailed

The court was told the drugs charges are related to the manslaughter allegation.

Ms Fowles was also charged with supplying diazepam to another 14-year-old girl, and heroin to a 22-year-old woman.

A 35-year-old Lowestoft man also appeared in court, charged with supplying heroin and methadone to Ms Fowles.

Carl Balls, of Montgomery Avenue, was released on conditional bail.

Both defendants are due to appear at Ipswich Crown Court on 30 January.

Jennifer was admitted to the James Paget Hospital in Gorleston, Norfolk, on Sunday.

She died of multiple organ failure.