Celebrity photographer 'beyond devastated' after mother charged with murder of son, 10
17 August 2020, 14:46
A celebrity photographer has paid tribute to his "beautiful, bright, inquisitive and artistic" son as the 10-year-old's mother faces court charged with his murder.
The boy's mother, Olga Freeman, 40, was remanded in custody after appearing at Uxbridge Magistrates' Court on Monday, charged with murdering Dylan at their home in Acton, west London.
Her ex-husband Dean Freeman said in a statement on Monday: "Dylan was a beautiful, bright, inquisitive and artistic child who loved to travel, visit art galleries and swim.
"We travelled extensively over the years together spending such memorable time in places including Brazil, France and Spain.
"I can't begin to comprehend his loss."
His representative described Mr Freeman as "a loving and caring father and even though divorced for a number of years he cherished all the quality time spent with his son” and said he has been left "beyond devastated".
According to his official website, Mr Freeman's work includes campaigns with Bollywood star Deepika Padukone and Hollywood actor Bradley Cooper.
His father, Robert, photographed the first five album covers for The Beatles.
His website says: "At just 16 years old Dean followed in his footsteps - leaving school to pursue his passion for storytelling through whatever means possible."
Mrs Freeman was arrested after walking into a police station in the early hours of Sunday to speak to officers and Dylan was later found dead at their home.
She appeared in court on Monday wearing a grey top and was flanked by three female dock officers.
She spoke to confirm her name, date of birth and address before the legal adviser read out the single charge of murder on or before August 16.
She was remanded in custody and will next appear at the Old Bailey on Wednesday.
Chairwoman of the bench Judy Gregg told her at the end of the brief hearing: "Ms Freeman, we are sending you to the Central Criminal Court, the Old Bailey, and you will be produced there on Wednesday August 19, in two days' time."
No-one else is being sought in connection with Dylan's death.
Reverend Nick Jones, 61, the rector of Acton, who lives in Cumberland Park, said on Sunday that news of the boy's death was "shattering".
He said: "I'm still shaking a bit, it's hugely upsetting."
Another neighbour said he was "in shock".
Neighbour Abby Gorton, who earlier spoke to detectives at length, said: "It's a tragedy.
"She was in a desperate situation and lockdown has made it more desperate.
"He was a very very severely disabled child and she had no help.
"He was very autistic, he didn't speak, he would only scream and flail.
"I always felt terribly sorry for her and should've done more to help her.
"I barely saw her with any other adults, any other help - and in lockdown nothing."
