Couple jailed for killing 15-month-old Violet Mullen: Manchester Crown Court
(M3 - Thursday, 18 November, 2010)

A couple have been jailed following the murder of 15-month-old Violet Mullen in Oldham.

Gary Alcock (born 31/12/1981) of Huddersfield Road, Oldham, was found guilty of murder following a trial.

Claire Flanagan (born 9/3/1988), also of Huddersfield Road, was found guilty of causing or allowing the death of a child under the Domestic Violence Act 2005.

Alcock was jailed for life and is to serve a minimum of 21 years and Flanagan was sentenced to five years imprisonment at Manchester Crown Court Crown Square on Thursday 18 November 2010.

Violet died at the Royal Oldham Hospital on Tuesday 12 January 2010.

She had been taken there by paramedics after she was found unconscious at home on Huddersfield Road by her mother Claire Flanagan and Alcock, Flanagan's live-in partner.

Doctors raised concerns after they found bruises on Violet's face and body. Flanagan and Alcock were arrested on suspicion of murder.

A post-mortem examination revealed that Violet died as a result of internal injuries.

She had significant bruising on her face and body, and had two broken ribs.

The pathologist concluded that it was most likely these injuries were caused by a punch or a blow by the knee, and with the exception of the broken ribs, they had been inflicted within 24 hours of Violet's death.

Neighbours told officers they had heard Flanagan shouting and swearing at the children, though no noise was heard on the day Violet died.

Senior Investigating Officer Vinny Chadwick said:

"The pathologist's report made some disturbing conclusions about how much Violet suffered before her death.

"Alcock was supposed to care for her but he abused his position and caused her death.

"We are pleased that justice has been done for taking away a completely innocent life, and our thoughts remain with Violet's family, as they continue to come to terms with her death."

In a tribute, Sheila Mullen said:

"We are devastated by Violet's loss.

"We are living a nightmare and it never stops.

"I have always treated Violet like my grand-daughter and loved and cared for her.

"She was a lovely little girl who was very loving and attached herself to me.

"Every time I look at a photo of her or think about Violet I am extremely emotional and have not come to terms with her loss."

Mr Paul Taylor, Violet's natural father said:

"This has been a difficult year.

"I wish I had got to know Violet, I wish I still had that chance."

Police Force: Greater Manchester

Address:
Manchester Crown Court
Crown Square
Manchester
Lancashire
M3