Sheffield mum admits killing her two teenage sons
Sarah Barrass pleaded guilty to the murders which happened in May
Last updated 27th Sep 2019
A Sheffield mum's been warned she faces life in prison after admitting killing her two teenage sons at their home in Shiregreen.
Sarah Barrass, 35, was in tears at Sheffield Crown Court as she pleaded guilty to murdering Tristan and Blake Barrass, aged 13 and 14 respectively, back in May.
Barrass also admitted conspiracy to murder six of her children, including Tristan and Blake, and five counts of attempted murder.
The attempted murder charges relate to four of her children, including Tristan and Blake.
Family member Brandon Machin, 39, also admitted the same charges.
The four surviving children, who are all under the age of 13, cannot be named for legal reasons.
Judge Jeremy Richardson QC told Barrass and Machin:
"No words of mine can ever fully reflect the enormity of what you have both done.
"The crimes you have committed quite frankly speak for themselves. The murder of two children.
"The attempted murder of four children and the over-arching conspiracy to murder those children.
"I repeat, those crimes speak for themselves. I have little doubt that each of you will in due course be sentenced to several terms of life imprisonment.
"This may well be a case, but it's a matter for the judge, where a whole life order is imposed."
Police were called to the house in Shiregreen in May to what they called a 'major incident'.
The cause of death of the children is still unclear.
An NSPCC spokesperson said:
“Every child deserves a safe and loving childhood - but Blake and Tristan were tragically denied that by Barrass and Machin’s devastating crimes.
“Children look to adults in their lives for love and support, and it is everyone’s responsibility to raise concerns about their safety or wellbeing. Adults can call the NSPCC Helpline in confidence on 0808 8000 5000 and speak to trained advisors."
Both defendants will be sentenced on 12th November.