Police arrested Constance and Mark in Stanmer Villas, Brighton, at around 9:30pm on Monday, 27 February. The couple was spotted by a vigilant member of the public in a shop on Hollingbury Place. Initially held on suspicion of child neglect, the charges were soon upgraded to gross negligence manslaughter. Both individuals remain in custody at a Sussex police station.
The missing baby is not with the couple and has yet to be found. Authorities have initiated a full-scale search operation that includes a police helicopter, sniffer dogs, thermal imaging cameras, and drones scanning the area. Over 200 officers from Sussex Police and the Metropolitan Police have joined forces in the search, concentrating on open spaces north of Brighton near the location of the couple’s arrest.
Detective Superintendent Lewis Basford said: “Our key priority throughout this investigation has been finding the baby. We’re urging anyone between Brighton and Newhaven to report sightings or any unusual activity, especially in gardens, sheds, or outbuildings.” He added: “It doesn’t matter how small the detail — if you see something suspicious, please contact us immediately. Public support is vital.”
The investigation began after a car fire on the M61 near Bolton on 5 January, when officers found the vehicle empty but recently occupied by Constance and Mark. Constance had given birth around that time but had not seen medical professionals. Police tracked the couple’s movements from Bolton to Liverpool, then to Harwich by taxi. They were seen with a baby on 7 January in Harwich and Colchester before continuing their journey.
The Metropolitan Police took over the case in mid-January, placing the couple near East Ham Station and later on Whitechapel Road, London. CCTV footage showed them carrying a pram and purchasing camping gear including a tent and sleeping bags, raising concerns they were living rough in freezing conditions. After moving around East London, they discarded some belongings near Brick Lane and took taxis to Haringey and then Newhaven. Police believe the couple has been camping near the A259 since early January, often sheltering from rain under bridges.
Detectives have praised the public for the tip-offs received so far and have asked anyone with information to contact the incident room on 0208 3453 865 or dial 999. With a large police force deployed and sophisticated technology in use, the search for the missing baby continues. The nation remains attentive, awaiting further updates.
Originally published by UKNIP.
