Delay in secret baby burial sentence

Angela Owen, 47, was due to have her case dealt with at Bradford Crown Court next Friday, but a psychiatric report will not be ready in time.

In September Owen, who now lives in Glastonbury, Somerset, pleaded guilty to concealing the birth of her baby boy and preventing the lawful burial of a corpse.

Police launched a major investigation after the infant’s body was found wrapped in a bin-liner in the grounds of The Howroyd at Barkisland, Halifax, in July 2006.

An inquest heard that new DNA tests confirmed she was the mother of the baby and she was arrested following an appeal on the BBC’s Crimewatch programme.

Owen has also pleaded guilty to six fraud or dishonesty offences covering a period between 2002 and 2004.

Judge Robert Bartfield was told that a psychiatric report would not be completed until after she has a counselling session next week.

Her case has now been adjourned until January 17 but sentencing may not take place on that day.