Father Gets Life Sentence for Baby Daughter's Murder

A father has been sentenced to life imprisonment for murdering his five-week-old daughter through repeated violent assaults that caused a fatal brain injury and dozens of fractures, while her mother received seven years in prison for failing to prevent the abuse.

Sean Jefferson, 35, of Birch Court in Walsall, was convicted of murder and two counts of causing grievous bodily harm with intent following a seven-week trial at Stafford Crown Court. The minimum term before he can be considered for parole is 22 years. His partner, Amy Clark, 34, of Enots Close in Lichfield, was found guilty of causing or allowing the death of a child and two counts of causing or allowing serious harm to a child. Prosecutors dropped more serious charges of murder and manslaughter against her during the trial, and she was acquitted of two counts of grievous bodily harm with intent. The sentencing occurred on Thursday.

Darcy-Leigh Jefferson was born five weeks prematurely on February 20, 2022, via caesarean section at Good Hope Hospital in Sutton Coldfield, weighing just under four pounds. She died two days after being rushed to hospital on March 27, 2022, the day police believe the fatal assault occurred...