New evidence leads to justice in decades-old tragedy
New evidence leads to justice in decades-old tragedy
Janice Nix, 67, from Rodenhurst Road, SW4, has been convicted of the manslaughter of her stepdaughter, Andrea Bernard, who died at five years old in July 1978.
The verdict follows a trial at Isleworth Crown Court where Nix was also found guilty of assaulting and ill-treating Andrea’s older brother, Desmond, between 1975 and 1978.
Andrea suffered severe burns from immersion in scalding bath water at the family home in Thornton Heath and died from sepsis caused by those burns.
Initially deemed accidental, new evidence emerged in 2022 when Desmond spoke to police, revealing his belief that Nix was responsible.
His testimony led to renewed investigations and the construction of a case using limited historical records.
Detective Inspector Louise Caveen from the Met’s Cold Case Homicide team recognised Desmond’s bravery in coming forward, enabling the conviction of Nix after decades.
The case reflects the Met’s commitment to pursuing justice in historic cases when new evidence arises.
Officers overcame challenges including missing records and deceased witnesses but relied on a 16-page Coroner’s report for crucial insights.
Nix's inconsistent statements compared to her original account contributed to the prosecution's case.
She will face sentencing at Isleworth Crown Court at a date yet to be confirmed.