Father Jailed Over Baby’s Shocking Injuries and Death
Jack Mitchell was born healthy in January 2001. But horror struck just months later when he stopped breathing four times between March and May. Each time, his father John Doak was alone caring for him.
Shaken Baby Syndrome Leaves Jack Brain Damaged
On the fourth incident, Jack was rushed to hospital with serious injuries. Doctors found retinal haemorrhages and subdural haematomas — unmistakable signs of severe trauma. A paediatrician diagnosed shaken baby syndrome. Jack survived but suffered irreversible brain damage.
Doak was arrested, convicted of causing grievous bodily harm with intent, and sentenced to four years in prison in 2002.
Jack’s Tragic Life in Care Ends at 15
Removed from his family home in Laindon, Jack was placed with foster carers in north Essex. His name was changed. He required 24-hour care for his extensive needs but sadly passed away in 2016, aged 15.
A post-mortem revealed he died from pneumonia and lung infection caused by his baby injuries.
New Manslaughter Charge Sees Father Locked Up Again
After reviewing Jack’s death, Doak, now 37 from Spalding, was charged with murder last September. On 6 November at Chelmsford Crown Court, he pleaded guilty to manslaughter. Just days later, on 9 November, he was sentenced to three years behind bars. The judge noted his previous four-year sentence for the same terrible offences.
“This is a tragic case of a young man whose future was stolen by his father’s actions,” said Detective Chief Inspector Stuart Truss. “John Doak was meant to protect Jack but instead destroyed his life. My thoughts are with Jack’s foster parents who cared for him through the years.”
