Former DJ convicted of murdering girlfriend’s daughter

particularly harrowing case for all concerned.

“Lylah was a happy, innocent girl who was much-loved by her family. Only a day before she was seen running and skipping around, like any other child of her age.

“It’s horrific that she was viciously murdered by Catwell, a man who should have been caring for her.”

He added: “This murder was a forceful and sustained attack on a defenceless three-year-old girl.”

Police said Lylah was “outgoing and bubbly” and should have been at a pyjama event at her nursery on February 9, the day she died.

Catwell denied murdering Lylah but was found guilty by a jury at Sheffield Crown Court after a day of deliberations.

He showed no emotion as the jury foreman read out the verdict but Lylah’s mother was overcome in the public gallery and had to be consoled by friends and relatives.

The judge, Mrs Justice Nicola Davies, remanded Catwell in custody. Bryan Cox QC, prosecuting, told her Catwell has a previous conviction for sexual activity with a 13-year-old girl, dating back to 2005. He said this involved sucking the toes of a girl he met in his local area and had invited back to his house.

The judge heard both defence and prosecution barristers agree that he will receive a life sentence with a minimum term to be fixed by the judge.