Poppi’s mother ‘angry and disappointed’ as CPS rules out charges against father

By The Press Association14th July 2016News EnglandChild Abuse, Childrens Services, Cumbria, News England, North West, Poppi Worthington, Sexual Abuse

The mother of a 13-month-old girl who was sexually abused by her father before her death has said she is “angry and disappointed” with the decision not to bring about any charges.

Following a review of the case by the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), a statement released on Thursday morning said there was “insufficient evidence to provide a realistic prospect of conviction” against Paul Worthington over the death of daughter Poppi.

In a statement, Poppi’s mother, who cannot be named for legal reasons, said she was “desperate” to understand more about the police investigations and the events leading up to the little girl’s sudden death.

Solicitor Fiona McGhie, of law firm Irwin Mitchell, said on her behalf: “This is obviously a very distressing time for Poppi’s mother and she is desperate to understand more about the police investigations and the events leading up to Poppi’s death.

“She is angry and disappointed with the decision by the Crown Prosecution Service and wishes to be given time and space at this difficult time as we approach the inquest.”

Poppi collapsed with serious injuries at her home in Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria, on December 12 2012 and was rushed to hospital, where she was pronounced dead.

Mr Worthington, who was arrested and questioned on suspicion of sexual assault in August 2013, has always denied any wrongdoing.

But High Court judge Mr Justice Peter Jackson ruled in January this year that the 48-year-old “perpetrated a penetrative … assault” before Poppi’s death.