Childminder Jailed for Over 12 Years After Shaking Baby to Death
Karen Foster, 62, has been sentenced to 12 years and seven months in prison for the manslaughter of nine-month-old Harlow Collinge. The tragic death occurred after Foster violently shook the infant in frustration when he toppled from his highchair and began crying.
Fatal Shaking After Baby Toppled From Highchair
The court heard how little Harlow, described as a “happy, healthy, much-loved” baby, suffered severe brain injuries after Foster lost her temper. Despite her role as a trusted childminder, Foster’s actions led to devastating consequences. Mr Justice Barry Cotter condemned the behaviour as utterly inexcusable.
Incident Happens Amid Foster’s Health Struggles and Overworking
Despite poor health and persistent hip pain, Foster continued running her childminding service, often working beyond official Ofsted limits. On March 1, 2022, while caring for four children in her Burnley home, her frustration boiled over, resulting in Harlow’s fatal assault.
Baby Dies Days After Emergency Hospitalisation
Emergency services rushed Harlow to Royal Blackburn Hospital after he was found in cardiac arrest. Tragically, he died four days later. A CT scan revealed severe brain swelling and bleeding. The post-mortem confirmed traumatic brain injury caused by forceful shaking.
Previous Assault Allegation and Family Outrage
Foster also faced an outstanding allegation of assaulting another child in 2019, which prosecutors are seeking to drop. As she was led from court, Harlow’s family shouted abuse, branding her a “scumbag bitch” and expressing their hatred.
