Jacob Crouch: Step-dad could have murder sentence increased
Craig Crouch's 28 year minimum term is being looked at
A man who murdered his 10-month-old stepson in Derbyshire could have his minimum 28-year sentence increased.
Craig Crouch was found guilty of murder and three counts of child cruelty earlier this month and jailed for life after causing "acute physical and mental suffering" to Jacob Crouch over six months.
A seven-week trial heard Jacob was found dead in his cot at the family home in Foxley Chase, Linton, near Swadlincote in Derbyshire, in December 2020.
Jacob's mother, Gemma Barton, was also jailed at Derby Crown Court for 10 years for causing or allowing his death, and child cruelty.
The Attorney General's Office says the sentences were being reviewed, with both were being considered under the Unduly Lenient Sentence (ULS) scheme.
They added the Law Officers have 28 days from sentencing to consider the case and make a decision.
In a victim personal statement read out in court, Andrew Smith, Jacob's father, said before the sentencing:
"The pain will be with me for a lifetime. It will never go away.
"I can't understand how or why you could inflict the injuries you did, Craig.
"My boy has some justice now, but it will never be enough for his suffering."