Mom beat 3-year-old to death during ‘pow pow’ before wrapping her up in Saran Wrap and going out for Chinese food: Testimony

Disturbing testimony emerged in a Maryland courtroom this week as prosecutors detailed allegations against a mother accused of killing her 3-year-old daughter, hiding the child’s body in a suitcase, and later going out to eat.

Darrian Randle, 32, is on trial in connection with the death of her daughter, Nola Dinkins, whose remains were discovered in June 2025 after an investigation into a reported kidnapping quickly turned into a homicide case.

Missing Child Report Triggered Investigation

The case began when Randle contacted authorities claiming that her young daughter had been abducted.

Investigators with the New Castle County Police Department responded and immediately began searching for the missing child. However, detectives soon discovered inconsistencies in the story and shifted their focus toward the child’s family.

As the investigation progressed, authorities determined that the reported kidnapping had never occurred.

Days later, Nola’s body was discovered inside a suitcase in Maryland, leading to multiple criminal charges against Randle and her boyfriend.

Detective Describes Alleged Confession

During court proceedings, jurors were shown portions of a police interview conducted after Nola was reported missing.

According to testimony, investigators questioned Randle about photographs allegedly found on her cellphone that showed the child with visible injuries.

Initially, Randle reportedly attempted to explain the marks as accidental. However, prosecutors say she later admitted to physically disciplining her daughter with a belt and other objects.

According to investigators, the punishments were referred to as “pow pows” and were allegedly used when the child misbehaved or failed to follow instructions.

Prosecutors Say Punishment Turned Deadly

Authorities allege that on the night before Nola’s disappearance was reported, Randle became angry and struck the child numerous times with a belt.

According to testimony presented in court, Randle allegedly admitted she “lost control” during the punishment.

Investigators claim the beating continued until the little girl became unconscious.

Court testimony indicated that after realizing the child was unresponsive, Randle contacted her boyfriend, Cedrick Britten, for help.

Prosecutors say attempts were made to revive Nola, but she had already died from her injuries.

Body Allegedly Hidden in Suitcase

Following the child’s death, authorities allege the couple took steps to conceal what happened.

According to investigators, Nola’s body was wrapped in plastic and placed inside a suitcase.

Prosecutors claim the suitcase remained in the home for a period before plans were made to dispose of it.

Court records indicate that the suitcase was eventually transported away from the residence and abandoned in a remote location.

The discovery of the suitcase later became a major breakthrough in the investigation.

Couple Allegedly Left Home After Child’s Death

One of the most shocking details revealed during testimony involved the couple’s actions after Nola died.

According to prosecutors, after hiding the child’s body, the pair left the residence and went out to get food.

Investigators say evidence gathered during the case supports the timeline outlined in the alleged confession.

The prosecution argues these actions demonstrated a deliberate effort to conceal the crime rather than immediately contact emergency services.

Boyfriend Also Facing Charges

Cedrick Britten, 44, has also been charged in connection with the case.

Authorities accuse him of helping conceal the child’s death and assisting in the disposal of evidence.

According to investigators, Britten later directed authorities to the area where the suitcase containing Nola’s remains was found.

He faces multiple charges, including allegations related to being an accessory after the fact.

Serious Charges Filed

Randle faces numerous felony charges, including:

• First-degree murder
• Second-degree murder
• Child abuse resulting in death
• Additional felony offenses connected to the alleged cover-up

Prosecutors argue that the evidence—including digital records, photographs, witness testimony, and statements made during interviews—supports the charges.

Trial Continues

The emotional trial continues as jurors hear testimony from detectives, forensic experts, and other witnesses involved in the investigation.

The case has drawn widespread attention due to the age of the victim and the disturbing allegations surrounding her death.

If convicted of the most serious charges, Randle could face life in prison.

Meanwhile, prosecutors say their goal remains securing justice for Nola Dinkins, whose death shocked communities in both Delaware and Maryland.