02/08/2013

Mother And Step-Father Of Daniel Pelka Jailed For Life

The mother and step-father of Daniel Pelka have been jailed for life, and will have to serve a minimum term of 30 years.

Four-year-old Daniel was systematically starved, force-fed salt, tortured and beaten by his mother Magdelena Luczak, 27, and her partner Mariusz Krezolek, 34.

The pair were found guilty of murder on Wednesday at Birmingham Crown Court.

Following the nine-week trial, during which the jury heard of the six months of abuse leading up to Daniel's death, it took four hours for pair to be unanimously convicted.

It is understood that a number of professionals, including health workers and police, had previously had contact with Daniel's family, while teachers at his school reported finding him scavenging in bins for food, but no action was taken.

A serious case review has been ordered by Coventry safeguarding children board.

A report is expected within six weeks.

(MH/JP)

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