The mugshot has been released of Claire Scanlon, the mother who has been sentenced for life for murdering her five-year-old son, Dylan, in December 2021.

Scanlon was found guilty by a jury on Wednesday (July 12) of Dylan's murder and was sentenced earlier today at Minshull Street Crown Court.

During a five-week trial, the court heard how Scanlon beat and poisoned her son with a fatal dose of an anti-depressant drug, mirtazapine, which she was prescribed.

 

The Bolton News:

The 38-year-old, who refused to attend her sentencing, suffers from Huntington's Disease and is expected to spend the remainder of her life in custody.

When passing sentence, Judge Amanda Yip said Scanlon had shown "no remorse" for her actions and that she only appeared sorry for herself.

This sentiment was echoed by Scanlon's other son, Shawn, who said her mother had not shown remorse for the murder at any point.

In Judge Yip's comments, which were addressed to Scanlon, she said: "You went from being a good mother who loved Dylan very much to murdering him. 

"You are the only person who knows exactly what happened but you have not told the truth. 

"I am sure that you gave Dylan a very large overdose of your anti-depressants intending that he should die. 

"You also hurt him, causing a lot of nasty bruising to his face and head through multiple blows."

This sentiment was echoed by Scanlon's other son, Shawn, who said her mother had not shown remorse for the murder at any point.

Throughout the trial, Scanlon repeatedly denied any responsibility for Dylan's death, often saying she could not remember certain incidents and periods.

Senior Investigating Officer Phil Reade said: “Our thoughts remain with those who knew and loved Dylan – particularly his dad and brother.

"We understand the conclusion of criminal proceedings will not heal their broken hearts but we do hope that this brings them a step closer to closure and gives them a sense of relief.”

Gary Keenan, Dylan's father, said: “I would like to thank all my family and friends for the love and support they have offered, during what can only be described as the worst time in our lives.

"Dylan was cruelly taken away from us on New Years Eve in 2021 by the one person who was supposed to love and protect him. He will be missed every minute of every day, and we cannot put into words how difficult it’s been to endure the trial and to listen to how Dylan came to his death.

"We would like to thank Greater Manchester Police and the Crown Prosecution Service, who have been so supportive and guided us through the investigation and trial.”