East Grinstead Couple Guilty Of Child Neglect

A couple who neglected a child in their care, who was found to have traces of cocaine and amphetamine in their system, have been jailed following an investigation by Sussex Police.

Kerry-Anne Baldry, 49, of Manners Road, Southsea, and Darren Barden, 50, of Holtye Road, East Grinstead, were found guilty of neglect of a child to cause unnecessary suffering or injury.

They were sentenced on Friday, January 13, after being found guilty by a jury on Friday, November 18, following a trial.

In 2016 a child in their care was taken to hospital with respiratory issues while the couple were living in East Grinstead.

Toxicology reports found traces of cocaine & amphetamine in the child’s system which caused significant injury to the child’s health.

Baldry was sentenced to two-years-eight-months while Barden was sentenced to three-years-four-months.

Detective Constable Michelle Hayes of the West Sussex Safeguarding Investigations Unit said:

“This has been a very distressing case for all involved. The victim was subjected to being in an environment where Baldry and Barden were reckless while the child was in their care.

"Both were jointly responsible for their actions. Neither of the adults recognised the risk they were subjecting the child too. As a result of their actions the child suffered life changing injuries which will continue to impact their quality of life.”