A MUM has been locked up for killing her two-year-old daughter by drowning her in a pond near her home.
Annabel Mackey vanished from her home in Kingsley, Hampshire, on September 10, 2023 – sparking a frantic search.
PAAnnabel Mackey was found dead in a pond near her home[/caption]
She had been reported missing from her homeSolent
The two-year-old was discovered a short time later unresponsive in a pond.
Annabel was rushed to hospital in a serious condition but sadly died the following day.
Her mum Alice Mackey was jailed today for four years after she pleaded guilty to manslaughter.
She denied murder, which was accepted by the prosecution after a report by two psychiatrists showed that she was in a state of “diminished responsibility” at the time.
Sentencing, Mr Justice Saini said Mackey was under the “delusional” belief that “the best way to protect her (Annabel) from a bad mother was to kill her”.
He continued: “You falsely believed she was not flourishing under your care and, in fact, was suffering under your care.
“You considered in your deluded state that this was some form of mercy for Annabel.”
Police had been called to the family home on September 11, 2023, after Annabel was reported missing at 5.02pm.
A probe was launched into her death and movements before the tragic discovery was made.
The court heard Mackey drowned her daughter nearby pond then phoned 999 and “lied” to officers and doctors.
She claimed someone must have taken Annabel from their house before saying she had found her in the pond.
Reports by two psychiatrists showed Mackey was suffering from a condition that meant she was “substantially impaired so unable to make a rational judgement” at the time of the killing.
The court heard that she had suffered post natal depression and anxiety following Annabel’s birth and had been prescribed anti-depressant and anti-psychotic medication.
The youngster’s dad previously paid tribute to his daughter and thanked those who were a “positive influence” in her life.
He also described Annabel as a “beautiful, positive and very happy little girl”.
The dad added: “She had an incredibly pure and caring nature that we miss so much. She loved story time, dogs and her dolly.
“She enjoyed singing songs and nursery rhymes and had a very sweet tooth.
“Annabel loved to laugh, she brought so much happiness into our lives.
“She was dearly loved by her family and friends.
“The world needs more people like Annabel to spread positivity and kindness.
“Annabel, I love you so much, you are a shining star and you will be loved forever x.”
Mum Alice pleaded guilty to manslaughter[/caption]
PAShe was detained today[/caption]
Annabel’s dad paid tribute to his ‘beautiful’ daughterSolent Published: [#item_custom_pubDate]
