Couple Jailed for 28 Years Over Newborn’s Tragic Death
Constance Marten, 38, and partner Mark Gordon, 51, have been locked up for a combined 28 years at London’s Old Bailey. Each received 14 years after being found guilty of killing their newborn daughter, Victoria.
Fleeing from Social Services
The couple went on the run with baby Victoria, desperate to dodge social services after their four other children were taken into care. Their deadly secret was uncovered when Victoria’s body was found in a Lidl shopping bag dumped in an allotment on 1 March 2023.
Judge Slams Lack of Remorse
“Neither of you gave much or any thought to the care or welfare of your baby. Your focus was on yourselves,” Judge Mark Lucraft told the court. He blasted the pair for blaming others and showing no genuine remorse for their actions.
Guilty Verdicts and Trials
- Both were convicted of manslaughter by gross negligence after a retrial, following a hung jury in their first trial.
- They were also found guilty of perverting the course of justice, concealing the birth, and child cruelty.
Appeals and Eye-Watering Legal Bills
Marten is now fighting to overturn her manslaughter conviction, though her earlier appeal on child cruelty was rejected in February. The drawn-out legal battles lasted over 33 weeks and may have cost taxpayers near £10 million.
Manhunt, Burnt Car, and Heartbreaking Details
The drama began in January 2023, when a placenta was found in a burnt-out car on a Bolton motorway. Marten claimed they fled to stop their fifth child from being taken away, saying her other children were “stolen by the state.”
The couple allegedly spent huge sums from a family trust fund on taxi rides around the country. Prosecutors revealed Victoria was poorly clothed and may have died from hypothermia or smothering while co-sleeping.
