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HEADS MUST ROLL

MP slams social services over baby Finley Boden’s tragic death at hands of drug addict parents

AN MP has called for social services “heads to roll” over the case of a baby murdered by his drug addict parents.

Finley Boden had 130 injuries, including 57 ­fractures, when he died on Christmas Day 2020.

An MP has called for social services 'heads to roll' over the death of Finely Boden
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An MP has called for social services 'heads to roll' over the death of Finely BodenCredit: PA

Social workers had returned the tot, ten months, to Stephen Boden, 30, and Shannon Marsden, 22, just 39 days earlier.

Officials are facing calls to explain why they did so — and why they missed opportunities to intervene to rescue him.

Speaking hours after the parents, of Old Whittington, Derbys, were convicted of murder, local Tory MP Nigel Mills said: “This is a truly horrific case.

“We need to know now if anyone has been disciplined, and if not why.

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"Those involved should potentially be banned from working in this field again.

“There should not be a wall of silence. Heads should roll.

“Public confidence is so important. There needs to be transparency around this case.”

A former friend of the family branded Finley’s parents “evil”, adding: “What has emerged has given me nightmares.

“Social services have serious questions to answer. There should be sackings now.”

Finley was taken from his parents soon after birth over concerns for his safety.

He was returned through a court order.

Boden and Marsden, who lived in squalour, then denied social workers access to him, Derby crown court was told.

Derbyshire County Council has said it will be “fully engaged” with an independent child safeguarding review into the circumstances of Finley’s death.

It said further comment would “not be appropriate”.

The tot was returned to the care of Stephen Boden before he was murdered
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The tot was returned to the care of Stephen Boden before he was murderedCredit: PA
Shannon Marsden was also convicted of murder over the death of Finley
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Shannon Marsden was also convicted of murder over the death of FinleyCredit: PA
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