Birkenhead Man Jailed for Toddler Murder in Heartbreaking Case

The tragic case of Teddy Tilston, a two-year-old who suffered fatal injuries, has been the subject of a serious case review which concluded that none of the public services involved missed opportunities to intervene. Teddy's mother, Ashleigh Willett of Birkenhead, was also convicted of child cruelty. Craig Smith, who was 28 at the time of his sentencing at Liverpool Crown Court, was found guilty of murdering Teddy after inflicting injuries on him and his twin sister. Smith claimed Teddy drowned in the bath, yet ambulance staff observed Teddy was completely dry when they arrived. Smith was sentenced to serve a minimum of 17 years for the murder. Willett received a 12-month prison sentence, suspended for two years, for failing to seek medical help for Teddy. The review indicated there was no history of abuse or neglect with the family, and all emergency responses and healthcare interventions responded professionally. The case was beyond heartbreaking, and officials emphasized that no reasonable professional could have foreseen or prevented the abuse. Smith's actions led to a life sentence, and the case has sparked widespread condemnation.