Court Hears Toddler Wore Sunglasses to Conceal Bruising Before Death

Testimony presented in court indicated that a toddler wore sunglasses to “hide” bruising during the week preceding the discovery of her body in a pushchair. Chelsea Gleason-Mitchell and her former partner Scott Jeff, both aged 24, have entered pleas of not guilty to the murder of Isabella Wheildon, Ms. Gleason-Mitchell’s daughter. Isabella, aged two, was found deceased at a residence on Sidegate Lane, Ipswich, on 30 June 2023, though it is thought her death occurred several days prior. During proceedings at Ipswich Crown Court, Mr. Jeff stated his belief that Isabella’s mother placed the dark glasses on her daughter. The jury was presented with video footage from 22 June, depicting the girl with dark rings around her eyes while residing in the temporary housing unit. Under questioning from his defence counsel, Christopher Paxton KC, Mr. Jeff asserted that he was concerned by the bruising and had threatened to contact social services, but ultimately did not proceed with the call. When questioned about the reason for Isabella wearing the glasses, he responded: “Chelsea put them on her.” Mr. Paxton then inquired, “Do you know why.” Mr. Jeff’s reply was: “Probably to hide the bruise under her eye.” When asked why he did not communicate his concerns to social services, he stated: “It seemed like a very traumatising thing for a child to be in and out of care, so I was very reluctant.” Earlier in the trial, Ms. Gleason-Mitchell testified that Mr. Jeff was responsible for the injuries sustained by her child. She further claimed he assaulted her on numerous occasions prior to her death. Mr. Jeff asserted that he never harmed the child. The court was presented with expletive-laden voice notes sent by Mr. Jeff to a friend, where he expressed his anger regarding the child having an accident during potty training. Mr. Jeff informed the jury that he is a “vocal person” and maintained that he had never harmed Isabella. Ms. Gleason-Mitchell had previously pleaded guilty to causing or allowing her daughter’s death, but she denies the charge of murder. Mr. Jeff, 24, denies both causing or allowing Isabella’s death and murder. The trial is ongoing.