Rochdale woman found guilty of causing the death of a child

A Rochdale woman has appeared in court in connection with the murder of a toddler in Wythenshawe.

Sharleen Hughes, 36, of College Bank, Rochdale, appeared at Liverpool Crown Court on Friday (24 May), alongside her partner Michael Wild, of Sheffield.

Hughes, was found guilty of causing the death of a child and two counts of attempting to pervert the course of justice, whilst Wild was convicted of the child’s murder.

On 21 January 2018, police were called by the ambulance service to reports that a 22-month-old girl, Ella-Rose Clover, was having a medical episode at a Wythenshawe address.

Despite the best efforts of medics, the little girl sadly died. A post-mortem revealed Ella had unexplained injuries and an investigation was launched.

Hughes, understood to be the child’s godmother, lived with Wild at an address in Wythenshawe at the time of Ella-Rose’s death.

Paying tribute to her, Ella-Rose’s mum, Pagan Clover said in a statement: “Mine, my family and friend’s world has been torn apart by the loss of our beautiful Ella-Rose.

“Ella was the funniest, cheekiest and most lovable little girl and none of our lives will ever be the same again.”

An NSPCC spokesperson: “Wild’s fatal attack on Ella was utterly reprehensible, destroying a young life and devastating her family.

“At 22 months old, Ella would have been completely reliant on the people around her to keep her safe, to nurture and care for her. Wild horrifically disregarded that responsibility.

“No child should be subjected to abuse, and if anyone has any concerns for a child they can contact the NSPCC Helpline on 0808 800 5000 or help@nspcc.org.uk 365 days a year.”

Hughes will be sentenced at Liverpool Crown Court on Wednesday 5 June, and Wild will be sentenced on Monday 3 June.