Parents Jailed for Death of Baby Eva in Horrific Abuse Case
Clare Sanders, 44, and Tomas Vaitkevicius, 45, both from Streatham Road, Mitcham, were found guilty of causing or allowing the death of their baby daughter, Eva Sanders. The tragic verdict came at the Old Bailey on Friday, 13 November.
Sentences Handed Down in Heartbreaking Case
- Clare Sanders was jailed for eight years.
- Tomas Vaitkevicius received a nine-year prison sentence.
The sentencing took place at the Old Bailey on Friday, 11 December.
Baby Eva’s Death and Shocking Injuries
The tragic events unfolded in the early hours of 1 September 2017. At 2:37am, London Ambulance Service called police to the Streatham Road address after baby Eva, just one month old, was found unresponsive.
Eva was rushed to hospital and placed on life support but sadly passed away just before 7pm the following day, 2 September 2017.
An initial investigation by the Child Abuse Investigation Team revealed Eva had suffered multiple non-accidental injuries to her head, ribs, and one eye. Medical experts confirmed these injuries were inflicted on more than one occasion during her short life.
Police Investigation and Guilty Verdict
Homicide detectives, led by Detective Inspector Will White, launched a full-scale probe. Clare Sanders and Tomas Vaitkevicius were arrested on suspicion of murder on 29 September 2017. They were formally charged in April 2018.
“This is a devastatingly sad case where baby Eva died from extensive injuries at just 28 days old,” said Detective Inspector White. “Medical evidence was clear that the injuries were deliberate.”
“Neither defendant offered an explanation for Eva’s injuries. Although nothing can bring her back, they will now face justice for their horrific actions. This was a heart-breaking loss of an innocent life at the hands of those meant to love and protect her.”
