Detectives have made a significant breakthrough in the decades-old case of the murder of baby ‘Callum’ in Warrington. The infant’s lifeless body was discovered in woodland in the Callands area of the town back in March 1998. Now, after years of investigation, a 54-year-old woman Joanne Sharkey has been charged in connection with the tragic incident.
The Investigation
Cheshire Police launched a murder investigation following the grim discovery of the baby’s remains. For years, the case remained unsolved, haunting the community and leaving unanswered questions for the grieving family.
In July 2023, a major development occurred when police arrested both a man and a woman from Liverpool about the incident. However, the pair was subsequently released on bail pending further inquiries.
Rearrest and Charges
Today, Monday, April 15, 2024, authorities took a significant step forward. The 54-year-old woman, identified as Joanne Sharkey from West Derby, Liverpool, was rearrested. The Crown Prosecution Service has now authorised Cheshire Police to charge her with murder.
Legal Proceedings
Joanne Sharkey has been remanded in custody and is scheduled to appear at Warrington Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, April 16. Detective Inspector Hannah Friend, part of Cheshire Police’s Major Crime Review Team, issued a statement:
“I understand that this is an extremely emotional case which has attracted a lot of attention over the past twenty-six years. However, I would ask people not to speculate. Criminal proceedings are now active against Joanne Sharkey, and she has the right to a fair trial. There must be no reporting, commentary, or sharing of information online which could in any way prejudice these proceedings.”
No Further Suspects
The man who was previously arrested as part of the investigation has since been released without charge. Authorities have confirmed that they are not seeking anyone else about the baby’s death.
