Aristocrat Constance Marten Faces Manslaughter Charges Over Newborn Daughter’s Death
Constance Marten, 36, the aristocrat accused of causing the death of her newborn daughter Victoria, was warned twice about the dangers of falling asleep with a baby, a court has heard.
Warnings Ignored Despite Freezing Conditions
In court, evidence revealed Marten and her boyfriend Mark Gordon were repeatedly advised against keeping the baby in a tent—especially in freezing temperatures. The court described this as “wholly inappropriate.”
Marten admitted to police she fell asleep with Victoria tucked under her jacket. She reportedly said, “I believe I fell asleep on top of her.” Tragically, that night Victoria did not survive.
Unfit Lifestyle Raises Alarm Bells
The couple’s unconventional lifestyle raised serious concerns. They lived in tents even after their first child was born. Social workers warned this was unsuitable for raising a baby, but Marten and Gordon refused to change their ways.
One social worker described their tent as inadequate for bitterly cold weather. Professionals warned multiple times about the risks of co-sleeping—such as suffocation and overheating, particularly for newborns.
Disturbing Details Emerge at Trial
Shockingly, the trial revealed Victoria’s body was discovered in a Lidl bag inside an allotment shed in Brighton. Prosecutors claim the baby spent most of her life confined to that bag.
The couple’s ongoing struggles included evictions, homelessness, and attempts to dodge authorities. Marten showed defiance toward social workers, insisting on living as she pleased despite warnings.
Facing Serious Charges But Pleading Not Guilty
Marten and Gordon face a grave list of charges: manslaughter by gross negligence, concealment of birth, cruelty to a person under 16, and perverting the course of justice. Both deny all allegations.
This heartbreaking case has sparked a stark warning about the dangers of ignoring professional advice when caring for vulnerable infants.
