KELLY CATLOW AND CHRISTOPHER ROSE FROM BURNLEY: TRAGIC BABY LEVI'S DEATH PROMPTS FULL INVESTIGATION IN EAST LANCASHIRE

In May 1997, the heartbreaking case surrounding the death of five-month-old Levi Rose has prompted a comprehensive investigation by multiple authorities in Lancashire, with a focus on uncovering any lessons that can be learned to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

Levi Rose's death was a devastating event that shocked the community and raised serious concerns about child protection and the effectiveness of the agencies involved. The case led to the conviction of his parents, Christopher Rose, aged 20, and Kelly Catlow, aged 19, who were both sentenced at Preston Crown Court. Rose received a six-year prison term, while Catlow was sentenced to three and a half years, both for manslaughter and child cruelty.

The tragic circumstances of Levi's death and the subsequent legal proceedings prompted Lancashire County Council, East Lancashire Health Authority, Lancashire Probation Service, and Lancashire Constabulary to jointly declare that a full inquiry would be conducted. The purpose of this inquiry is to thoroughly review the actions and contact of the various agencies involved with the family prior to Levi's death, aiming to identify any failures or gaps in the protective measures that could be addressed in future cases.

A joint statement issued by these authorities emphasized that the Lancashire Child Protection Committee would oversee the review process. This review will include an examination of evidence presented during the trial, some of which was not previously available to the committee. The authorities expressed their commitment to learning from this tragic incident, stating that the review would be prioritized despite the complexity and time required for a detailed analysis.

The statement further clarified that until the review is complete, the involved agencies would refrain from making additional comments. Once the review concludes, a further statement will be issued, outlining the findings and recommendations aimed at improving child protection protocols and preventing future tragedies. Levi Rose's parents, Kelly Catlow and Christopher Rose, who resided on Cronkshaw Street in Burnley and were formerly from Huncoat, were held accountable for their roles in Levi's death, which has left a lasting impact on the community and the child protection system in East Lancashire.