JAMES HAMSHAW SHOCKS BEDWORTH WITH HORRIFIC BABY DEATH AND BRIDGE THROWING

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Bedworth, James Hamshaw, aged 23, was involved in the tragic death of a premature infant and the subsequent disposal of the child's body in a manner that has left many appalled. The incident dates back to August 14, 2014, when Hamshaw and his partner, Claire Cook, 24, were unaware of the pregnancy until just a month before the baby was born. The infant, born eight weeks prematurely, unfortunately did not survive.

Following the baby's death, Hamshaw made the horrifying decision to conceal the body. He placed the tiny, fragile form into a plastic bag and then threw it off a bridge near the railway line on Queen Street in Bedworth. This act of neglect and brutality remained undiscovered for over two years, until Hamshaw eventually disclosed the details during police interviews related to separate offences.

It was only after this confession that authorities recovered the remains of the infant, bringing closure to a case that had remained shrouded in mystery for an extended period. Both Hamshaw and Claire Cook were arrested and charged with the offence of concealing a birth. During court proceedings, they both pleaded guilty to the charges, leading to their appearance at Warwick Crown Court for sentencing.

The presiding judge, Richard Griffith-Jones, described the case as “deeply offensive to right-minded people,” emphasizing the gravity of the crime. He expressed his belief that the baby was either stillborn or had died of natural causes shortly after birth, but condemned the manner in which the remains were discarded. The judge remarked, “For that baby to be put in a bag and thrown over a bridge is just an appalling thought for anyone.”

As a result, both Hamshaw and Cook received sentences of ten months in prison, suspended for two years. Additionally, they were ordered to pay costs of £200 each, payable at a rate of £20 per month.

During the proceedings, Cook’s defence attorney, Ben Gow, highlighted her emotional turmoil following the loss of her baby. He noted that she had been dealing with the grief largely on her own, as it was nearly two years before the truth emerged. Cook reportedly expressed remorse, stating, “What I have done is horrible, I am a horrible person,” reflecting her deep regret and the tragic nature of the case.