A mother who permitted her partner to fatally harm her young child may soon be considered for early release from incarceration. Despite this, relatives of Maya Chappell have voiced their opposition to the potential release, expressing concerns about the additional suffering it may bring upon them.
Dana Carr was sentenced to nine years in prison for child neglect and complicity in the death of her two-year-old daughter, Maya, who was fatally injured by Carr’s partner, Michael Daymond. Daymond received a life sentence for the abhorrent act.
Under the government’s contentious initiative to address prison overcrowding, around 5,000 individuals are anticipated to be granted early release through sentencing adjustments. This number was reduced from 6,000 after the government exempted rapists and child sex offenders from early release following a policy review prompted by Prime Minister Andy Burnham.
Maya’s great-aunt, Gemma Chappell, criticized the potential early release of Carr, stating that it reopens wounds for the victims. Gemma revealed that the family was notified by Prison Services about the possible impact of the early releases on their family and Carr’s release.
Carr had entrusted Daymond with the care of Maya on September 28, 2022, leading to the tragic incident where the child was fatally shaken. Daymond, who had been in a relationship with Carr for only nine weeks, inflicted fatal injuries on Maya after learning that his Universal Credit had been suspended. The child passed away in the hospital two days later due to severe injuries and never regained consciousness.
While Daymond was convicted of Maya’s murder and received a life sentence with a minimum of 20 years, Carr now faces the possibility of early release, causing distress to Maya’s family.
Gemma emphasized the importance of continued scrutiny of the release scheme, advocating for a thorough review before any decisions are finalized. Additionally, she called for the implementation of Maya’s Law, which aims to protect vulnerable children by sharing relevant information with parents or guardians regarding potential risks posed by caregivers with a history of abuse or neglect.
Efforts to reach the Ministry of Justice for comment by The Mirror have been made.