Birmingham Duo Appear in Court Over Stepbrother's Death
A man and woman from Birmingham have appeared before a judge at Birmingham Crown Court, facing serious charges connected to the death of the man's stepbrother in Tamworth.
Kenneth Newton, 57, and Melanie James, 63, both of Stafford Road in Handsworth, stand accused of killing Newton's stepbrother, Rubin Blount. The pair are charged with murder, manslaughter, and causing or allowing the death of a child or vulnerable adult.
Police Response and Tragic Outcome
The case began when police responded to a call expressing concern for a man's welfare in Tamworth. This call was logged at 1.27pm on Sunday, November 27, 2022.
Following the police intervention, Mr Blount was taken to Good Hope Hospital in Sutton Coldfield for treatment. Tragically, his condition did not improve, and he passed away three days later.
Courtroom Proceedings and Future Dates
The defendants appeared at Birmingham Crown Court on Friday, November 21, 2025. Newton attended via video-link from HMP Dovegate in Uttoxeter, wearing a grey jumper and an orange sash. During the hearing, he was seen wiping his eyes and nose while seated.
James appeared from HMP Foston Hall in Derbyshire, also dressed in a grey jumper and sitting with her arms folded. Judge Andrew Smith KC, the presiding judge, had to intervene during the session, instructing the pair to stop talking to each other over the video-link and to pay attention to the court.
Judge Smith confirmed he was not in a position to decide on bail for the two individuals at that initial hearing. However, he set a directions hearing for Wednesday, November 26. The purpose of this next hearing is to address the bail question and to establish a provisional date for the trial.
The court was informed that the case will likely be heard by a High Court judge at Stafford Crown Court and is expected to last for approximately four weeks. Both Newton and James were remanded in custody until their next appearance.
