The trial of Constance Marten and her boyfriend, Mark Gordon, took a dramatic turn as the court learned that Marten’s parents had hired private investigators in an attempt to locate their daughter.
Marten, 36, and Gordon, 49, stand accused of the alleged killing of their newborn baby, Victoria, by taking her on the run in January of the previous year to evade intervention by social services. The discovery of the baby’s placenta in a car on a Manchester motorway sparked a massive police hunt, ultimately leading to the couple’s arrest after spending almost two months camping in the South Downs near Brighton.
The court heard that Victoria was later found dead in a Lidl bag for life, with prosecutors alleging that she died from exposure after enduring weeks in bitterly cold conditions.
In a set of agreed-upon facts presented to the jury, prosecutor Joel Smith, KC, revealed that Marten’s parents had confessed to hiring private investigators to search for their daughter. Marten’s mother, Virginie de Selliers, and her father, Napier Marten, admitted to seeking assistance in locating their daughter on separate occasions.
The Marten family, known for their wealth and aristocratic background, has been closely involved in the trial proceedings. Marten’s upbringing at the Dorset estate of Crichel House, coupled with her family’s connections to royalty, has added intrigue to the case.
Amidst expert testimonies and legal arguments, the court also delved into discussions surrounding the circumstances of baby Victoria’s death. Professor Peter Fleming, a doctor specializing in infant health, provided insights into the condition of the baby and the circumstances surrounding her demise.
Despite the ongoing legal battles and complex medical evidence, Marten and Gordon maintain their innocence, denying charges of manslaughter, concealment of birth, cruelty, and perverting the course of justice.
The trial, which has captured public attention, continues as the court examines further evidence and testimonies in pursuit of justice for baby Victoria.
