Kate Roughley, a nursery worker, faces a serious prison sentence after being convicted of killing nine-month-old Genevieve Meehan by strapping her face down to a beanbag for over 90 minutes. The tragic incident took place at Tiny Toes Nursery in Cheadle Hulme, Stockport, where Roughley, 37, served as deputy manager.
Genevieve, affectionately known as Gigi by her family, suffocated after being left in this dangerous position on May 9, 2022. The court heard that Roughley placed the infant in “mortal danger” as a form of punishment. After a four-week trial at Manchester Crown Court, Roughley was found guilty of manslaughter and will be sentenced on Wednesday.
During the trial, the jury learned that Genevieve was swaddled in a blanket and strapped to a beanbag in the nursery’s baby room for one hour and 37 minutes. Her mother, Katie Meehan, was visibly emotional as the unanimous guilty verdict was delivered. Roughley, however, showed no reaction and was taken into custody immediately.
Nursery nurse guilty of killing baby
Genevieve’s father, John Meehan, expressed his family’s profound grief and described how her death had devastated them. He emphasized that Genevieve was more than just a tragic case discussed in court; she was a beloved daughter who enjoyed playing with her tambourine and eating spaghetti bolognese. Meehan condemned Roughley’s actions, describing them as selfish and cruel, and criticized her for not taking responsibility.
Roughley, who had worked at Tiny Toes for 17 years and managed the baby room, denied the charges of manslaughter and child cruelty. She insisted she did not cause Genevieve’s death. However, the prosecution argued that Roughley had placed Genevieve in danger and deliberately failed to intervene.
The jury was shown CCTV footage capturing Roughley’s frustration and impatience with Genevieve in the days leading up to the incident. The footage included moments where Roughley could be heard making derogatory remarks and singing dismissively to Genevieve as she cried.
Greater Manchester Police described Roughley as “callous and negligent,” with Detective Inspector Charlotte Whalley stating that Genevieve should have returned home to her family that day. Karen Tonge, a specialist prosecutor, highlighted the breach of trust and the devastating consequences of Roughley’s actions.
Genevieve’s family continues to mourn their loss, longing to see her smile and feel her embrace. They hope that her memory will not be defined solely by the circumstances of her death but by the joy and love she brought into their lives.
