BALTIMORE, Md. — A Maryland woman who initially claimed her 3-year-old daughter had been kidnapped has now confessed to fatally beating the child and disposing of her body in a local park, authorities revealed. The shocking admission came during a police investigation that unraveled a disturbing attempt to cover up a brutal crime.
The mother, Darrian Randle, admitted to striking her daughter, Nola Dinkins, between 15 and 20 times with a belt during what she described as a fit of anger. When the child became unresponsive, Randle and her boyfriend, Cedrick Britten, panicked. Instead of calling for medical help, the pair placed the girl’s lifeless body into a suitcase and left it in their basement for a period of time.
Police say Britten later helped Randle move the suitcase and dump it in a local park. Days later, under questioning, Britten led detectives to the location where the suitcase containing Nola’s remains was found. Both adults were arrested and are now facing multiple charges, including first-degree murder, child abuse resulting in death, and obstruction of justice.
The case began when Randle reported her daughter missing, claiming she had been kidnapped. That false report triggered an Amber Alert and a large-scale search by local law enforcement. However, inconsistencies in Randle’s story quickly raised suspicions among investigators. Surveillance footage, witness statements, and forensic evidence contradicted her initial claims, ultimately leading to her confession.
“This is a heartbreaking and deeply disturbing case,” a Baltimore Police spokesperson said. “A young child’s life was violently taken, and an entire community was misled in a desperate attempt to hide the truth. We will ensure that justice is served.”
Neighbors and community members are mourning the loss of little Nola, who was described by those who knew her as cheerful and full of life. A growing memorial at the park where her body was found features flowers, stuffed animals, and handwritten notes expressing grief and outrage.
As the legal process moves forward, investigators are continuing to gather evidence. Prosecutors have not ruled out additional charges. Randle and Britten remain in custody without bond, and court dates are expected in the coming weeks.