Karen Foster, a 62-year-old childminder, has been sentenced to 12 years and seven months in prison for the manslaughter of nine-month-old Harlow Collinge. The tragic incident occurred when Foster forcefully shook the infant in frustration, leading to his death. Foster had been due to stand murder trial but pleaded guilty to manslaughter after discussions with the child’s family.
The court heard that Harlow had toppled over from his highchair and started crying, and Foster shook him in frustration. Despite being a “happy, healthy, much-loved” boy, Harlow suffered devastating injuries due to the violent shaking. Mr Justice Barry Cotter emphasised that Foster’s actions were inexcusable, especially considering her role as a childminder.
Foster continued childminding despite her ill health and pain in her hip, working more than she should have under Ofsted rules. On March 1, 2022, she lost her temper while caring for four children, resulting in the fatal assault on Harlow.
Harlow was rushed to the Royal Blackburn Hospital after emergency services responded to reports of a child in cardiac arrest at Foster’s property in Hapton, Burnley. Tragically, he died four days later. A CT scan revealed significant brain injuries, including bleeding and swelling. The post-mortem confirmed inflicted traumatic brain injury as the cause of death.
Foster also faced an additional allegation of assaulting a two-year-old girl in her care in 2019. The prosecution has requested that this count be filed.
As Foster was led away from the dock, Harlow’s relatives expressed their anger, shouting “scumbag bitch” and “I hate you.”
