Dad admits manslaughter charge over death of son

A Weston dad has admitted causing injuries to his baby son which led to the son’s death years later.

Jack Mitchell died, aged 15 in 2016 and a forensic post-mortem examination found he had died from a pulmonary infection and pneumonia as a result of injuries sustained as a baby in Laindon in Basildon.

His biological father, John Doak, was later charged with the murder.

The 37 year-old, of Delgate Avenue, Weston, admitted manslaughter at Chelmsford Crown Court today (Friday November 6).

He’s due to be sentenced at the same court on Monday November 9.

Senior investigating officer for Essex Police, detective chief inspector Stuart Truss, said: “This is a truly tragic case of a young man whose future was taken away from him by the injuries sustained at the hands of his father.

“My thoughts also go out to Jack’s adoptive parents who had given him many wonderful years before his death. They continue to live with the sad loss of Jack.”

more >

Damning inspectors’ report for Long Sutton secondary school

15 Jun 2026

Royal Mail investigating after video of duck being run over circulates online

12 Jun 2026

Pinchbeck road to be closed for at least two more weeks as county council provide update

12 Jun 2026

Medical episode leads to emergency services in Spalding town centre

11 Jun 2026

Two arrested following raid on Spalding home

11 Jun 2026

Leading from the front for new fuel

10 Jun 2026