Parents jailed over death of vulnerable daughter

A mother and a father have today been jailed for causing or allowing the death of their daughter.

Alan Davies and Bernita Davies, both 60, of Bluebell Estate, Pandy, Wrexham appeared at Mold Crown Court on 19 March for sentencing.

The couple both previously denied a charge of manslaughter and causing or allowing the death of a vulnerable adult.

In January this year, at Mold Crown Court, they later admitted causing or allowing the death of a vulnerable adult.

Both Alan and Bernita Davies were sentenced to eight years in prison. Two thirds must be served in custody before they are released on licence.

Steffie Davies, 32, was sadly pronounced deceased at her parents’ home on 26 May, 2023, after Bernita Davies called an ambulance shortly after 8.30am that morning, reporting her daughter had died.

Paramedics found her in an abhorrent condition and immediately reported the death to police following concerns Steffie had passed away earlier than reported.

Alan and Bernita Davies were subsequently arrested that morning.

Steffie’s cause of death was later confirmed as sepsis due to infected pressure ulcerations, very low body weight and poor nutritional status.

Her medical records revealed she was not known to mental health or social services, and no medical attention had been sought, despite her poor condition.

Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Superintendent Sarah-Jayne Williams said: “The conditions in which Steffie Davies were found were abhorrent and sadly indicated neglect over a prolonged period.

“It is difficult to comprehend that a once fit and healthy woman had been able to deteriorate to the point of death, with no intervention from her mother and father who she resided with at the time and would have been fully aware of her deteriorating condition. 

“Both Alan and Bernita Davies have acknowledged the level of care they provided for their daughter was woefully inadequate, which led to her tragic and unavoidable death.’’

“I would like to thank my investigation team for the exceptional work they have carried out, through what has been a particularly distressing and complex investigation.

“My thoughts and condolences remain with Steffie’s wider family.”

In a tribute to Steffie, her sister, said: “I have lots of happy childhood memories with my sister. I can remember when our Nan looked after us in the school holidays, we would make up dances together to Abba songs. We both loved setting up our Nans table with tablecloths, napkins and paper cups to eat our dinner.

“As Steffie got older, she really struggled with social situations. She loved animals and went to Northop college to study an Animal Care Course and did really well.

“She had so much potential but needed the right encouragement and support, which she simply did not get. As time went on her anxiety grew and she found it hard to leave the house.

“Steffie came to my wedding in 2015. I remember feeling so happy that she had come. I feel lucky that Steffie shared that day with me and that I have photos of her smiling and happy that I can look back at now to remember her.

“She could have done so much with her life. Instead, she was left to fade into insignificance in the most inhumane way possible. No sentence that can be given will ever be able to atone that.”