Mother Charged With Murder Of Dylan Freeman, 10 As His Real Parent Pays Tribute

The father of a 10-year-old boy found dead in west London has paid tribute to his “beautiful, bright, inquisitive and artistic child”.

Dean Freeman, a celebrity photographer, said he could not “begin to comprehend” the loss of Dylan Freeman, who was discovered at a property in Cumberland Park, Acton, on Sunday.

The boy’s mother Olga Freeman, 40, appeared before magistrates in Uxbridge on Monday charged with Dylan’s murder.

Mr Freeman’s representative said Mr Freeman was in “Spain when he heard the shocking and heart-breaking news, and is beyond devastated”.

They added: “He was a loving and caring father and even though divorced for a number of years, he cherished all the quality time spent with his son.”

In a statement, Mr Freeman said: “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.”

The representative added: “Dean has been touched by the messages of support he’s received from friends and asks that the media respects his and his family’s privacy at this awful time.”

Dylan’s body was discovered at the home after a woman walked into a police station to speak to police officers in the early hours of Sunday. 

Neighbours described how Dylan was disabled and struggled with his speech.

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.”

On Monday, the defendant was escorted into the dock by three female security guards. 

When asked to confirm her name, she stood, answered “yes” and hung her head.

During the five-minute hearing, Freeman was told her offence can only be heard at the crown court.

No plea was taken and she did not ask for bail. She will next appear at the Old Bailey on Wednesday.