In a harrowing case that gripped the nation, aristocrat Constance Marten and her partner Mark Gordon have been found guilty of concealing the birth of their newborn daughter, who tragically died during their months-long attempt to evade authorities.
The Old Bailey heard how the couple lived off-grid in a tent on the South Downs after fleeing their burning car near Bolton last January. Their baby Victoria, born during this period, was later found decomposing in a Lidl bag inside a disused shed in Brighton.
A Desperate Flight from Authorities
The court learned how Marten, 36, and Gordon, 49, spent over £800 on taxis during their 54-day disappearance, moving between holiday lets and remote locations while social services desperately searched for them. Their decision to avoid medical care for their newborn proved fatal.
Gruesome Discovery in Brighton
Police finally discovered the couple in Brighton on February 27, 2023, but their baby's remains weren't found until March 1. Forensic experts testified the infant likely died from exposure to cold temperatures in the makeshift living conditions.
Shocking Revelations in Court
Prosecutors revealed Marten had previously given birth to four other children, all removed by social services. The couple's extreme measures to keep this child hidden included:
- Using cash to avoid detection
- Changing SIM cards frequently
- Living without electricity or running water
The jury cleared them of gross negligence manslaughter but convicted them of concealing a birth and perverting the course of justice. Sentencing is scheduled for later this month.
