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Melissa Wilband sentenced for infant daughter's death

Wilband was jailed for 15 years for shaking her four-month-old daughter, Lexi, to death.

July 21, 2025 at 12:21 PM

Woman jailed for 15 years for shaking her four-month-old baby to death

Melissa Wilband was convicted of manslaughter for shaking her four-month-old daughter, Lexi, to death.

Melissa Wilband sentenced to 15 years for killing her infant daughter

A woman named Melissa Wilband has been sentenced to 15 years in prison after being found guilty of manslaughter for shaking her four-month-old daughter, Lexi. The incident took place during the first Covid lockdown at their home in Newent, Gloucestershire. Lexi suffered severe brain bleeding, which was likely caused by violent shaking on two separate occasions. In court, evidence revealed that Wilband tried to deceive her then-partner, Jack Wheeler, about Lexi's paternity by presenting a false DNA test. Lexi tragically died on April 18, 2020, after being hospitalized, with a nurse holding her hand.

Key Takeaways

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Melissa Wilband received a 15-year prison sentence for shaking her infant daughter to death.

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Lexi suffered severe brain bleeding due to violent abuse from her mother.

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The conviction sheds light on issues of child safety amid pandemic stressors.

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Wilband's attempt to deceive her partner about paternity adds complexity to the case.

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Public reaction highlights the urgent need for mental health support for parents.

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This case underscores ongoing discussions about domestic violence against children.

"Your shaking of Lexi led to severe bleeding in her brain."

This quote from Mr Justice Saini emphasizes the violent act that caused Lexi's death.

"It is hard to imagine the pain that Lexi must have suffered both from the past violence and the violence that led to her death."

Mr Justice Saini captures the profound tragedy and suffering experienced by the infant.

Wilband's case highlights disturbing issues surrounding child safety and domestic violence. The extreme actions taken by Wilband, including faking a paternity test and shaking her infant, raise serious questions about the mother-child bond and mental health support. Furthermore, the legal system's approach to such violence against children generates debate on how society protects its most vulnerable members. The impact of Covid-19 lockdowns on mental health may have played a role, emphasizing the need for better resources in times of crisis.

Highlights

A mother deceived her partner and lost her child in a tragic act of violence.
Lexi's death tragically underscores the importance of mental health for parents.
Faking a paternity test added a layer of deception to a heartbreaking tale.
Child safety must be a priority, especially during crises.