Missing Baby Sparks Police Hunt After Brighton Couple Arrested
Couple Nabbed But Baby Still Missing
Police have arrested Brighton couple Constance Marten and Mark Gordon, turning their investigation’s spotlight onto a missing baby. The couple vanished in January, with the infant believed to be only days old at the time.
The pair were caught using a cashpoint at Mulberry Store, near where they were finally detained. A local man in his 30s, who had seen media appeals, called 999 to report their location. CCTV footage shows the couple dressed in black puffer jackets—but crucially, the baby was not with them.
Urgent Search Underway for Baby on Sussex Downs
Police have launched a frantic search involving helicopters, drones, and sniffer dogs scouring allotments and a golf course in the Sussex Downs. Officers are desperately trying to find the baby, with concern growing over its exposure to the elements.
“This search is now all about that baby,” said Detective Superintendent Lewis Basford, urging the public to stay vigilant, especially in Brighton and towards Newhaven.
Couple’s Evasive Journey Across England
The couple had been on the run since early January after their car broke down near Bolton, Greater Manchester. Their vehicle was later found burning on the M61. Since then, they have been travelling around England by taxi, reportedly trying to evade the police. CCTV shows them trying to hide their faces from cameras.
Marten and Gordon, the latter a convicted sex offender, were found in North Brighton’s Fiveways area on Monday evening. Police have not revealed the baby’s whereabouts or condition as they continue their enquiries.
Public Help Urged as Officers Search Local Land
Approximately 20 officers have been combing Hollingbury Golf Course and Roedale Valley allotments, encouraging residents to report anything suspicious and check sheds and outhouses.
Det Supt Basford added: “The couple was on their way to open land when arrested. They travel long distances, so stay alert.”
The investigation remains active as police intensify their efforts to locate and ensure the safety of the missing infant.
