Man jailed for murdering partner's baby

A 21-year-old man who murdered his partner's one-year-old daughter in "an extremely senseless and cowardly attack" was told today he must serve a minimum of 13 years in prison.

Humberside Police said Oliver Longcake pleaded guilty to the murder of baby Alisia Salter at her home in Hull.

The little girl was in Longcake's care when she was attacked by him, officers said. She was taken to Hull Royal Infirmary after the assault on March 22 this year but she did not survive her injuries.

A post-mortem examination later showed she had died as a result of internal injuries including abdominal haemorrhaging. Alisia also suffered a lacerated liver, bruising to her forehead and fractured ribs.

Today, a judge at Hull Crown Court jailed Longcake for life and ordered him to serve a minimum of 13 years.

Longcake lived with Alisia and her mother at Davidstow Close, on Hull's Bransholme estate - where the attack took place.

After the case, senior investigating officer Detective Superintendent Dena Fleming said: "This was an extremely senseless and cowardly attack on a one-year-old baby who had no way of defending herself.

"Longcake was living with Alisia's mother, he is an adult and his role was that of a parent.

"Instead of protecting Alisia he subjected her to the most horrendous harm.

"He attacked a tiny defenceless baby who has been cruelly robbed of her life and a future.

"Her injuries are distressing.

"My sympathy and that of my team go out to this baby's family."

Following the hearing, Alisia's father Gary Miller released a statement through the police which said: "Alisia's mother and I would like to thank Humberside Police for their hard work in getting justice for our daughter, Alisia.

"She was a much loved, adorable little girl, and we're both devastated by her loss.

"At least Ollie is now in prison, where he belongs.

"Once again, we want to be left to grieve in peace and to thank our families for staying away from court hearings and request there will be no further unwanted comment made to the media. Thank you."

After Alisia's death, her great-grandmother, Maureen Bristow said: "Alisia was a right little tinker. She was always smiling, laughing and joking.

"She was just a little angel and we are all absolutely devastated."