I've never seen a case like Marten and Gordon's - it was jaw-dropping
Constance Marten and Mark Gordon faced a jury and were found guilty of manslaughter by gross negligence after two trials concerning the death of their baby. The first trial, which began in January 2024, ended with convictions for concealing the birth and child cruelty but left a murder charge unresolved. Their courtroom conduct included numerous disruptions, such as personal conversations and requests to leave for coffee, prompting the judge to comment on their lack of seriousness. Despite the serious nature of the charges, the couple exhibited a strong affection for each other, frequently engaging in flirtatious banter and physical affection during proceedings. Judge Mark Lucraft KC expressed exasperation at their behavior, highlighting a significant contempt for the judicial process.
Their frequent changes in legal representation contributed to the long delays and chaotic nature of the trials. Gordon described his love for Marten as an "obsession," indicating the depth of their relationship amidst the trial's turmoil. This case has drawn significant public attention due to its unusual dynamics and the serious implications of their actions.