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Stafford Father Pleads Guilty to Manslaughter in Death of Three-Month-Old Son

Sentencing will take place at Stafford Crown Court on a date to be confirmed.

Overview

  • Gareth Stark, 38, admitted manslaughter and a charge of battery at Birmingham Crown Court on January 12, 2026.
  • Three-month-old Leon Stark was taken to hospital on October 12, 2023, after becoming unwell in Stafford and died eight days later.
  • Staffordshire Police’s Major Investigations Department found Leon had suffered a significant head injury caused by his father.
  • Detective Inspector Lisa Holland described the case as truly tragic and said the force will continue its safeguarding work with partners.
  • Stark is from Stafford and will return to court for sentencing, with the date yet to be set.