+ Concealment of birth – a crime or an emotional reaction to women who do not conform? Emma Milne – University of Essex
+ The law Offences Against the Person Act 1861 (24 and 25 Vict. c100, s.60). History Elements
+ Cases Caroline Concealed four still born infants for over 20 years. Led a "chaotic and dysfunctional" lifestyle following a divorce in the mid-1980s. Had a number of sexual relationships over the period. Concealed the pregnancies because she was ashamed and she did not believe in abortion. Amanda Police called to the house she shares with her parents following the stillbirth of a baby. Arrested on suspicion of murder and conspiracy to conceal the birth of a child Post-mortem examination inconclusive. Sally Did not know she was pregnant until she gave birth – baby life-less upon birth. Left the body by a river, where it was later found by a walker. The baby suffered several injuries including a fractured skull and collarbone. Initially a murder investigation, but that enquiry was dropped. Mary Feared her parent’s reaction if they discovered she was pregnant. Sought medical assistance during pregnancy, but never advised about the pregnancy. Gave birth alone in her house. Allowed the baby to die and dumped the body in a nearby garden.
+ An emotional reaction? Discovery of a body Hidden pregnancy Private birth Rejection of motherhood Rejection of femininity