Newborn Death Trial: Constance Marten Defends Living in Tent with Baby
Constance Marten, on trial with partner Mark Gordon over the heartbreaking death of their newborn daughter Victoria, has defended their choice to live in a tent with the baby. She cited historical and cultural examples to back their nomadic lifestyle.
“Jesus Survived in a Barn,” Says Marten
At the Old Bailey, Marten, 36, insisted their lifestyle was no different to that of nomadic Bedouin families braving cold deserts with their children. “Jesus survived in a barn,” she said, arguing that families worldwide endure tough living conditions yet still care deeply for their babies.
She challenged medical warnings about exposing newborns to cold, pointing out that many babies spend time outdoors and some countries don’t have central heating.
Tent Life to Avoid Authorities, Say Couple
The couple, who were on the run fearing Victoria would be taken into care, lived in a tent temporarily. Marten stressed that Victoria’s well-being was always their priority despite the hardships of outdoor living.
When asked about Victoria’s tragic discovery in a Lidl bag inside an allotment shed, Marten denied abandoning her. She blamed panic and grief, insisting the baby stayed with them the whole time and was never “dumped.”
Serious Charges and Ongoing Trial
Marten and Gordon, currently with no fixed address, face serious charges: manslaughter by gross negligence, child cruelty, and perverting the course of justice. Both deny all accusations as the trial continues.
The case has sparked widespread shock and debate about parental responsibility after the tragic death of baby Victoria.
