Couple Found Guilty in Tragic Death of Baby Jacob Lennon
In a gripping Old Bailey trial, Jake Drummond, 33, from Roehampton, was convicted of gross bodily harm with intent and the murder of 15-month-old Jacob Lennon.
Jacob’s mother, Louise Lennon, 32, of Battersea, was found guilty of child neglect and causing or allowing the child’s death.
Both face sentencing at the same court on Monday, 24 April.
Police Uncover Harrowing Abuse
Detective Chief Inspector Wayne Jolley said: “No one who has listened to the catalogue of injuries inflicted on Jacob Lennon can be anything but horrified. It is hard to comprehend how such a young and vulnerable baby could have been so abused. Drummond and Lennon sought to cover up their guilt by blaming accidents or feigning ignorance of how he was injured. However, a jury saw through their attempts to avoid the blame and found them both accountable for Jacob’s death.”
“This case was very distressing and I would like to thank my team and all those who supported the prosecution for their professionalism and diligence. Everyone concerned has had to listen to some truly harrowing evidence, but we were determined to persevere and bring those responsible for Jacob’s death to justice.”
Timeline of Tragedy
- The investigation began after police were called at 06:06 on 27 August 2019 to a Putney residence.
- London Ambulance Service had been responding to reports of a child in cardiac arrest.
- Jacob was rushed to a West London hospital but sadly died at 07:22.
- A post-mortem at Great Ormond Street Hospital revealed multiple traumatic brain injuries, some days or weeks old.
- The fatal brain injury occurred three to five hours before Jacob’s death.
- In total, Jacob suffered over 40 recent injuries to his head, body, arms, legs — plus severe damage to his genitals.
- Louise Lennon claimed the genital injuries were caused by another child playing with a toy plastic knife.
- Evidence showed Jacob suffered repeated abuse over days and weeks.
Defendants Lied to Police, Jury Sees Through Deception
On police arrival, Drummond and Lennon told officers they found Jacob unresponsive early that morning. Drummond said he began CPR immediately.
Lennon claimed their recent holiday included an incident where Jacob fell and hit his head, but said it caused no problems.
Both defendants fabricated stories to explain Jacob’s injuries. Drummond reported waking to a loud bang and squeal, finding Jacob face down.
However, a thorough Metropolitan Police investigation at the Specialist Crime Command exposed the lies, leading to their convictions.
