A healthcare visitor has told jurors at Stafford Crown Court that she raised serious concerns about five-week-old Darcy-Leigh Jefferson just days before the infant’s tragic death. Zena Graham described how she noticed two dark black bruises on the baby’s face during a home visit, prompting her to report the injuries to social services three days before Darcy-Leigh was admitted to hospital with a catastrophic brain injury.
Graham also observed dried blood around the baby’s lips and noted that Darcy-Leigh, who was on a child protection plan, appeared to be in pain and was unsettled during the visit to mother Amy Clarke’s home in March 2022. Despite her concerns and advice that a child protection medical examination should be conducted, social services decided against it.
Darcy-Leigh, born prematurely weighing just 4lbs, was admitted to hospital on March 27 and died two days later. Prosecutors allege that her parents subjected her to physical abuse leading to her fatal injuries. Evidence presented details numerous fractures, including 47 rib fractures caused by squeezing and leg fractures possibly due to pulling or shaking. The fatal brain injury could have resulted from violent shaking or the baby’s head striking a surface.
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Throughout several visits, Graham described Clarke as appearing relaxed and the baby as clean and well dressed, though concerns arose over feeding difficulties and weight loss. Clarke admitted to missing some hospital appointments and reported that Darcy-Leigh was fussy and sometimes vomited after feeding. On the final visit, Graham found the baby unusually hot and observed signs of distress, including scratching and dried blood at the mouth corners. Clarke appeared worried but questioned whether the bruises would bring trouble.
Graham stressed that bruising in babies this young is rare and worrisome, especially as they are typically immobile. The healthcare worker recounted attempting to feed Darcy-Leigh herself, noting the baby’s initial resistance but eventual feeding from her arms, indicating recognition and trust.
The prosecution highlighted Clarke’s history of alcohol consumption and cocaine use during and after pregnancy, and Jefferson’s cannabis use. They contend that the parents concealed their lifestyle to present an orderly front and deny responsibility for the abuse.
The court continues to hear testimony as the jury deliberates over charges including murder, manslaughter, grievous bodily harm, and child cruelty.