LEE CLARK GAINFORD BABY SHAKER SENTENCED TO NINE YEARS IN PRISON

In a tragic case that has shocked the community of Gainford, a man named Lee Clark has been convicted of the manslaughter of his five-month-old son, Charlee Cameron Clark. The incident occurred in February 2011, just days before the child's scheduled christening, and has left a family devastated and a community in mourning.

According to court proceedings, Clark, aged 28 at the time, initially claimed that he had been bouncing his infant son on his knee when the fatal injuries occurred. However, medical examinations and police investigations revealed a different and more disturbing truth. The mother of the child, who was Clark’s then-fiancée, recounted that she left the family home in Gainford, Co Durham, at approximately 10:45 am on February 25, 2011, to purchase clothing for the upcoming christening. She described Charlee as a happy and smiling baby when she left.

Upon her return later that afternoon, she was alarmed to find her son making unusual groaning sounds, with his eyes rolling backwards. It was immediately apparent that Charlee was gravely ill. Emergency services were called, and the child was rushed to Darlington Memorial Hospital. Medical tests conducted there showed bleeding in his swollen brain, along with hemorrhages around his eyes, indicating severe trauma. Despite efforts to save him, Charlee’s condition worsened, and he was placed in intensive care. Tragically, he passed away five days after being admitted, on March 1.

During police interviews, Clark asked whether his son’s injuries could have been caused by bouncing him on his knee, a claim that was scrutinized by investigators. Authorities, including social services, became involved in the case. Clark, who was a bar manager, maintained his innocence, telling doctors, “I have not shaken the baby.” Despite his claims, evidence pointed to a different cause of death. The court heard that Clark had no prior criminal record and was considered a good father by those around him. However, it was acknowledged that he had lost his temper with his son on at least one occasion.

Judge Mr. Justice Coulson delivered the verdict after a jury trial, finding Clark guilty of manslaughter. The judge remarked that only Clark truly knew the full circumstances of what transpired. He stated, “The circumstances of what happened will only ever be known by you. At some point in the morning, when you were responsible for Charlee, you lost your temper with him and you shook him. As a result of the shaking, Charlee ultimately collapsed and died.” The judge also acknowledged the positive aspects of Clark’s character, noting, “All of the evidence including from Charlee’s mother is that you were a good dad and I accept that.”

Throughout the trial and subsequent court appearances, Clark was seen smiling on several occasions as he arrived at Newcastle Crown Court to hear the evidence against him. This behavior drew criticism and concern from observers and the court alike.

Following the sentencing, Charlee’s mother expressed her profound grief and the ongoing pain of losing her “beautiful baby son.” She said, “It is now almost two years since his death and I cannot say how much we as a family miss him and just how difficult it has been trying to come to terms with our tragic loss. Charlee was such a happy, relaxed gorgeous baby boy who was always smiling and we continue to think of him and miss him every day. As a family, we feel relieved that the truth is out and justice has been done for Charlee.”

Detective Superintendent Adrian Green, who led the police investigation, commented on Clark’s lack of cooperation, which he said added to the family’s suffering. “I hope the verdict has provided the answers the family sought and takes them some way further towards coping with the loss of Charlee,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of justice in this heartbreaking case.