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Police continue investigation into Anita Rose's murder

News

Suffolk police are intensifying efforts to solve the murder of Anita Rose, 57, who died after sustaining a serious head injury during a dog walk in Brantham last week.

Suffolk Constabulary's Major Investigation Team is pursuing multiple lines of inquiry to uncover the circumstances surrounding Rose's death.

This includes house-to-house interviews, scene searches, CCTV analysis, and ongoing forensic work.

A map of Anita Rose's last known movements
A map of Anita Rose's last known movements and where she was discoveredSuffolk Police

Key details:

  • Anita Rose left her home around 5am on Wednesday, July 24, to walk her springer spaniel, Bruce.

  • A passerby found her unconscious on a track near the sewage works and railway line off Rectory Lane at approximately 6:25am.

  • Rose was taken to Addenbrooke's Hospital with a serious head injury and passed away on Sunday morning, July 28.

Arrests made:

  • A 45-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and later re-arrested for murder.

  • A 37-year-old woman was arrested on suspicion of handling stolen goods related to the incident.

  • Both suspects have been released on police bail until October 25, 2024.

What they're saying: Detective Supt Mike Brown said, "Residents will continue to see additional police officers patrolling and engaging in the area. We recognise that many people will feel concerned, but I can reassure you that we are working hard to identify what has taken place and that this investigation is a priority for the Constabulary."

Public appeal: Police are seeking information about Rose's missing pink waterproof jacket, believed to be from an outdoor clothing brand like Regatta.

Safety advice: Det Supt Brown advised residents concerned about going for walks to "remain vigilant, tell someone where you are going, what time you expect to be back and let them know when you are home."

What's next: Police plan to conduct an anniversary check in the Rectory Lane area on Wednesday, July 31, and are working with British Transport Police to explore additional leads.

How to help: Anyone with information is urged to contact Suffolk police, quoting reference 37/41580/24, via the MIPP Portal, Crimestoppers, or by calling 101.

Man jailed for life for 'monstrous' murder of Ipswich toddler

News

A 24-year-old man has been sentenced to life imprisonment for murdering a two-year-old girl in Ipswich, while the child's mother has been jailed for 10 years for allowing her death.

The big picture: Scott Jeff must serve a minimum of 26 years for what the judge called "monstrous" attacks on Isabella Jonas-Wheildon, whose body was discovered at temporary accommodation in Ipswich on 30 June 2023.

Why it matters: The case has highlighted serious child protection concerns after evidence revealed Isabella suffered extensive injuries over several weeks, including broken wrists and a fractured pelvis consistent with being kicked or stamped on.

Scott Jeff and Chelsea Gleason-Mitchell
Scott Jeff has been sentenced to life imprisonment for murdering a two-year-old girl in Ipswich, while the child's mother, Chelsea Gleason-Mitchell, has been jailed for 10 years for allowing her deathSuffolk Constabulary

Key details:

  • Chelsea Gleason-Mitchell, Isabella's 24-year-old mother, was sentenced to 10 years for allowing her daughter's death and child cruelty offences.

  • Isabella's cause of death was bone marrow embolism and skeletal trauma.

  • A leading bone expert testified the injuries were the worst he had seen in his 40-year career.

  • The couple continued to push Isabella's body around Ipswich in a buggy for four days after her death while shopping and visiting pubs.

  • Both defendants were arrested in Bury St Edmunds after fleeing Ipswich when police discovered Isabella's body.

Isabella Wheildon
Isabella Jonas-Wheildon's body was discovered at temporary accommodation in Ipswich on 30 June 2023Suffolk Constabulary

What they're saying: Detective Chief Inspector Craig Powell said: "The murder of any child is the worst crime imaginable. No sentence will ever be long enough, but the court has imposed the most severe penalties that it has deemed appropriate."

The bottom line: The tragic case has deeply affected the Ipswich community, with support services now available through the Samaritans on 116 123 and the Child Death Helpline on 0800 282 986 for anyone impacted by the case.

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