A teenager from Derbyshire, Carl Alesbrook, has been sentenced to a minimum of 14 years for the murder of his partner's four-month-old baby, Elijah Shemwell. The court heard how Alesbrook, now 19, caused catastrophic injuries to the infant by shaking him repeatedly, resulting in brain damage and numerous fractures. Alesbrook was just 16 years old when he committed the crime, having met Elijah's mother, India Shemwell, only weeks before the tragic incident.
On 5 January 2022, Elijah was found unresponsive at his mother's home, three days after being taken to the hospital. He died with injuries described by medical professionals as catastrophic, primarily stemming from multiple incidents of violent shaking. During the proceedings at Derby Crown Court, it was revealed Elijah suffered brain bleeding, whiplash-type injuries, and had bruising consistent with being gripped by adult hands (which were reported as 17 bruises around his body).
Alesbrook was found guilty on 11 July following weeks of trial where the jury learned details about the severe injuries the child sustained, and his prior contacts with Alesbrook. Prosecutors highlighted several instances where Alesbrook allegedly lost his temper, contradicting his claims of never being excessively angered by the child. Evidence showed he referred to Elijah derogatorily just days before the baby's hospitalization.
Alesbrook's defense argued he was very young and described as immature but capable of being caring. Nevertheless, the jury unanimously convicted him of murder and causing grievous bodily harm. The judge issued the indefinite sentence on 15 November 2024, reflecting the severe impact of Alesbrook's actions on the victim's family and community.
Alongside Alesbrook, India Shemwell, the victim's mother, was sentenced to three years for child cruelty, having admitted to failing to seek timely medical assistance when her son showed signs of distress. Prosecutors noted troubling behaviors, including her sending videos of the unresponsive Elijah to friends instead of contacting emergency services sooner. On the eve of his hospitalization, she had shared footage showing her son struggling to breathe.
During the trial, Shemwell was characterized as inadequate, failing to prioritize her son's needs over her own. Her defense attorney expressed remorse on her behalf, stating, "She knows she has let down her son, she knows she has let herself down, and she has let down her family." It was conveyed her failings would haunt her indefinitely. Following the report detailing her emotional state, victim impact statements highlighted the heartache felt by both families involved, particularly the grandparent, Rachel Shemwell, who reflected on the indelible loss of Elijah.
Justice Jeremy Baker presided over the sentencing, emphasizing the significant and transcendent loss of young Elijah, reinforcing how no punishment could ever compensate for his death. Detective Chief Inspector Greg McGill, who led the investigation, reiterated concerns about the dangers of shaking infants, stating even teenagers should understand the fatal potential of such actions.
This unfortunate case shines light on the severe consequences of domestic violence, child neglect, and the grave responsibilities parents and guardians bear for the lives of their vulnerable children. The court’s decisions aim to hold responsible parties accountable, yet the legacy of loss inherited by Elijah’s family remains irreparable. Community leaders and authorities are left grappling with the aftermath, hoping to find paths to prevention for similar cases moving forward.
