A 27-year-old woman has been convicted of manslaughter after the death of an 18-month-old boy in her care.
Jaxon Syrett died in hospital on Thursday 24 September 2020, having being admitted almost a week earlier with significant injuries.
The woman who was looking after him, Shannon Driver, called 999 on the afternoon of Friday 18 September 2020.
She said that Jaxon had been seriously injured after slipping in the shower while with her at a property in London Road, Bexhill.
The toddler was taken to hospital for treatment but, despite the best efforts of hospital staff, he never recovered from his injuries and was confirmed dead on Thursday 24 September.
Driver had been looking after him while his father was at work.
Jaxon was found to have suffered significant injuries that post-mortem tests suggested were “non-accidental” – or “inflicted trauma”.
Sussex Police started a criminal investigation, known as Operation Rosepool, and arrested Driver, 27, of North Road, Bexhill. She was charged with manslaughter and remanded in custody.
At Hove Crown Court yesterday (Wednesday 17 January) Driver was found guilty of manslaughter.
She is due to be sentenced at the same court on Wednesday 27 March.
Jaxon’s family said: “The tragic loss of Jaxon has changed our lives forever. We will never see Jaxon’s cheeky smile again nor hear his infectious laugh and will miss every milestone Jaxon had to reach.
“Jaxon had his whole life ahead of him. We as a family hold and cherish every memory we have of Jaxon.
“We would like to thank everyone who has been involved with this investigation and in getting a conviction and some kind of justice for our baby.
“The support we’ve been given in such devastating circumstances has been so appreciated.”
Investigator Dick Hemmings said: “This was an investigation into the most tragic of circumstances.
“No family should have to go through what Jaxon’s have experienced and I would like to extend my heartfelt condolences for their devastating loss.
“They have shown incredible strength and determination to support this investigation which faced multiple delays during the court process.
“No judicial outcome can make up for this tragedy but with this conviction we can look ahead to sentencing and the conclusion of this process.”
