Bell Lamb & Joynson’s Involvement in the Joanne Sharkey Case
Case Overview
In March 1998, the body of a newborn baby boy – later named Baby Callum by authorities, was found in a wooded area near Gulliver's World theme park in Warrington. Despite a thorough investigation at the time, the mother’s identity remained unknown.
In January 2022, a routine check of the DNA National Database revealed a familial link to Mrs Joanne Sharkey. At the time of the incident, Mrs Sharkey was 28 years old, married, and already a mum to an 18 month old child. She had been suffering with severe postnatal depression after the birth of her first baby, but unfortunately, this went unrecognised and untreated. As a result, she kept her second pregnancy hidden, which led to the tragic events of 1998.
Legal Proceedings
Mrs Sharkey was represented by Nina Grahame KC of Garden Court North Chambers, with support from our own Jenny Price at Bell Lamb & Joynson Solicitors. She was originally charged with the murder of her baby son. After discussions, both the prosecution and defence accepted that Mrs Sharkey had been suffering with serious mental health problems at the time. She pleaded not guilty to murder but accepted responsibility for manslaughter due to diminished responsibility, as well as concealment of birth.
On 4th of April at Liverpool Crown Court, Mrs Sharkey was sentenced to two years in prison, suspended for two years, for the manslaughter of her newborn son. She also received a six-month prison sentence, suspended, for concealment of the body.
Mrs Justice Eady said that this “very sad case calls for compassion” and recognised that Mrs Sharkey has a “realistic prospect of rehabilitation”. She must also complete a mental health treatment programme over the next 12 months, including 30 rehabilitation activity days.
Reflections on Mental Health and Legal Support
This case shows just how important it is to recognise and support mental health issues, especially postnatal depression. It also shows the role the justice system can play in making sure people are treated with fairness and compassion.
At Bell Lamb & Joynson, we believe that legal professionals have a duty not just to represent clients, but to help shine a light on the wider issues that lead to complex cases like this one.