Man and woman arrested and charged after child’s body found at Southend home

Two people have been charged after the body of a child was discovered at a home in Southend last week.

Essex Police officers attended an address in Kenway, close to Prittlewell railway station, on 7 August after social services raised concerns about the welfare of a child.

Sadly, officers discovered the child’s body at the property.

A man and woman were subsequently arrested as detectives from Essex Police’s Crime and Public Protection Command began an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the child’s death.

Sophie Dean, 31, of Coates House, Kenway, Southend, and James Thorpe, 32, of Frobisher Way, Shoeburyness, have now been charged with preventing the lawful and decent burial of a dead body between 3 July 2025 and 6 August 2026.

Thorpe has also been charged with obstructing a police officer in the execution of their duty.

The pair appeared at Southend-on-Sea Magistrates’ Court on Monday 10 August, and were remanded in custody.

They are next due to appear at Basildon Crown Court on 7 September.

Essex Police says its investigation into the child’s death remains ongoing.

Anyone with information who has not yet spoken to officers is being urged to contact Essex Police, quoting investigation number 42/125225/26.

Information can be reported to Essex Police online through its 24-hour Live Chat service or by calling 101.

As criminal proceedings are now active, people should avoid commenting on the case should avoid speculation about the circumstances or the guilt or innocence of anyone involved, as comments could potentially prejudice proceedings.