A 42-year-old woman has pleaded guilty to the manslaughter of her two-year-old daughter who died after being found unresponsive in a pond in Hampshire, with psychiatric reports showing she was in a state of “diminished responsibility” at the time of the incident.
Alice Mackey, of Oakhanger, Hampshire, entered the plea at Winchester Crown Court in connection with the death of Annabel Mackey, who went missing from her home in Forge Road, Kingsley, Bordon, Hampshire, on 10 September 2023.
The tragic case has shocked the local community, with the toddler being described by family as a “shining star” who spread “positivity and kindness” to all who knew her.
Details of the Incident
The youngster was found a short time after going missing at Kingsley Pond, located near the family home. Annabel was discovered unresponsive and was immediately taken to hospital in a serious condition.
Despite medical efforts to save her life, Annabel died the following afternoon on 11 September 2023, leaving family and the local community devastated by the loss of such a young life.
The incident prompted a major police investigation, which ultimately led to Alice Mackey being charged with her daughter’s death.
Court Proceedings and Psychiatric Assessment
At Winchester Crown Court, Alice Mackey entered a not guilty plea to a charge of murder, but pleaded guilty to the lesser charge of manslaughter. The court heard that this plea was acceptable to the prosecution following extensive psychiatric evaluation.
Two independent psychiatrists assessed Mackey and concluded that she was in a state of “diminished responsibility” at the time of the incident. This finding was crucial in the prosecution’s decision to accept the manslaughter plea rather than proceed with the more serious murder charge.
Judge Christopher Parker KC presided over the hearing and accepted the plea arrangement. The case represents a complex legal situation where mental health issues have played a significant role in determining the appropriate charges.
Legal Framework of Diminished Responsibility
The acceptance of a manslaughter plea on grounds of diminished responsibility reflects the legal system’s recognition that mental health conditions can significantly impair a person’s ability to form the intent required for a murder conviction.
Under English law, diminished responsibility is a partial defence to murder that can reduce the charge to manslaughter when a defendant’s mental state at the time of the offence substantially impaired their ability to understand their actions or exercise self-control.
The assessment by two psychiatrists was essential in establishing this defence, requiring detailed examination of Mackey’s mental state both at the time of the incident and during the subsequent investigation.
Family Tributes and Community Impact
Family members have paid touching tributes to young Annabel, remembering her as a beloved child who brought joy to those around her. In emotional statements, relatives described her lasting impact despite her short life.
“The world needs more people like Annabel to spread positivity and kindness,” one family member said in tribute. “Annabel, I love you so much, you are a shining star and you will be loved forever.”
The tragedy has deeply affected the local community in Kingsley, a small village in Hampshire where such incidents are extremely rare. Local residents have expressed their shock and sadness at the loss of such a young life.
Sentencing Arrangements
Judge Christopher Parker KC adjourned the case for sentencing on 6 October 2025, giving the court time to prepare comprehensive reports that will inform the final sentence.
Mackey has been remanded in custody until the sentencing hearing, reflecting the serious nature of the offence despite the acceptance of the diminished responsibility plea.
The judge told the defendant: “There will be a further hearing on October 6, my expectation is that on that date either sentence will take place if in due course the court and counsel are in agreement of the factual basis.”
Sentencing Considerations
When determining the appropriate sentence, the court will need to balance several factors including the tragic loss of life, Mackey’s mental health condition, and the need for both punishment and treatment.
Manslaughter sentences can vary significantly depending on the circumstances, particularly when mental health issues are involved. The court may consider whether treatment orders alongside or instead of custody would be appropriate.
The psychiatric reports that established diminished responsibility will likely play a crucial role in the sentencing decision, as will any recommendations for ongoing mental health treatment.
Mental Health and Criminal Justice
This case highlights the complex intersection between mental health and criminal justice, particularly in cases involving family tragedies where the perpetrator was suffering from significant psychological distress.
The legal system’s approach to such cases has evolved to recognise that appropriate mental health intervention may be as important as traditional punishment in preventing future tragedies and supporting rehabilitation.
The acceptance of the diminished responsibility plea suggests that the prosecution recognised the significant impact of Mackey’s mental health condition on her actions.
Previous Court Appearances
The case has progressed through several court hearings since Mackey was first charged. An earlier preliminary hearing at Winchester Crown Court saw a trial date initially set for October 2025, but the guilty plea has now altered the timeline.
During previous appearances, Mackey spoke only to confirm her name, with her parents attending court to support her through the proceedings.
The legal process has been careful and thorough, ensuring that all aspects of the case, particularly the complex mental health elements, have been properly assessed.
Community Support and Resources
The tragedy has highlighted the importance of mental health support services, particularly for parents who may be struggling with psychological difficulties.
Local support services have emphasised the availability of help for families facing mental health challenges, stressing that early intervention can prevent tragic outcomes.
The case serves as a reminder of the critical importance of recognising warning signs of mental health deterioration and seeking appropriate professional help.
Impact on Local Services
The incident has prompted local authorities to review support services available to families in crisis, ensuring that adequate mental health resources are accessible to those who need them.
Emergency services responded quickly to the initial incident at Kingsley Pond, though despite their best efforts, they were unable to save Annabel’s life.
The case has also highlighted the importance of water safety around local ponds and waterways, particularly in areas frequented by families with young children.
Looking Ahead to Sentencing
The 6 October sentencing hearing will bring formal closure to the legal proceedings, though the emotional impact on all involved will continue long beyond the court process.
The court will receive detailed psychiatric and probation reports to inform the sentencing decision, ensuring that all relevant factors are considered in determining the appropriate outcome.
Family members are expected to have the opportunity to provide victim impact statements describing the devastating effect of Annabel’s death on those who loved her.
Broader Implications
This tragic case serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences when mental health crises go untreated or inadequately supported within families.
The legal outcome, while providing some form of justice, cannot restore the precious life that was lost or heal the profound grief experienced by Annabel’s extended family and community.
The case may influence future discussions about mental health support for parents and the early identification of families at risk of crisis situations.
The sentencing hearing on 6 October 2025 will conclude the legal proceedings in this deeply tragic case that has affected an entire community.
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