A mother has been handed a life sentence after admitting to the murder of her newborn twins in a case that has left the nation in shock.
The woman, whose identity has been withheld, was found guilty of smothering her infants shortly after their birth. The court heard harrowing details of the incident, which unfolded in her home.
Judge Sarah Johnson described the crime as "one of the most distressing cases" she had ever presided over, sentencing the mother to a minimum of 20 years behind bars.
Detective Inspector Mark Roberts, who led the investigation, said: "This was a truly heartbreaking case. No sentence can undo the loss of these innocent lives, but we hope it brings some measure of justice."
The twins were discovered by emergency services after the mother reportedly called for help. Despite efforts to revive them, both babies were pronounced dead at the scene.
Mental health experts testified during the trial, revealing the mother had a history of severe psychological issues. However, the judge ruled these factors did not diminish her culpability in the deliberate act.
Child protection charities have since called for improved postnatal mental health services, highlighting the need for better support systems for vulnerable new mothers.
