A THURROCK mum who murdered her five-year-old child has been give a life jail senetence.

As reported on Thurrock Nub News yesterday (Thursday, 16 October) Claire Button, 36, was convicted of his murder following a trial at Basildon Crown Court. She had denied the charge of murder but was found guilty by a jury.

Today she was jailed for life by Judge Samantha Leigh and must serve a minimum term of nine years.

Emergency services were called to her home in Windstar Drive, South Ockendon, on the afternoon of Sunday, 15 December 2024, after concerns were raised for the welfare of both Claire and Lincoln. Despite the best efforts of paramedics, Lincoln passed away at the scene.

Mrs Button was taken to hospital for treatment before being arrested and later charged. She was remanded in custody and appeared at Basildon Crown Court on Wednesday. 9 April.

She has been on trial at Basildon Crown Court over the past two weeks.

Imposing the life sentence, Judge Leigh said Lincoln's death was avoidable and there had been "missed opportunities" for intervention.

The judge described the case as "one of the hardest I have heard in the last 30 years", branding it "truly heartbreaking".

Jurors heard Button called the emergency services for help prior to the murder, but was told there was a 10-hour wait for help.

"She became so desperate, the lack of help and no 999 response was the final straw," Judge Leigh said.

"We all know resources are scarce, but that isn't good enough."

Lincoln Button

Lincoln Button was described in court as being attached to his mother

The court heard Button's mental state "spiralled" due to the "relentless demands" of her son.

She claimed to have started hearing voices in her head after a series of "meltdowns" Lincoln had in public.

"I accept she was desperate and couldn't see a way out of what was going on," Judge Leigh added.

However, she said Lincoln was especially vulnerable and there had been a clear abuse of trust.

Prosecutors also made the case that Button's level of mental illness did not substantially impair her judgement and rationality.

At the conclusion of the trial, Claire's family spoke of the compassionate and supportive approach shown by detectives from Essex Police's Serious Crime Directorate.

They especially praised Detective Constable Keith Corry for his kindness, understanding, and steady support throughout the investigation.

Lincoln Button in his school uniform

Lincoln's relatives shared how deeply loved he was, describing him as a cherished part of their lives who will always remain in their hearts.

The following statement was issued by them: "This has been the most painful chapter in our lives.

"We are grateful to the officers who treated us with compassion and dignity, and who helped us navigate the unimaginable.

"Lincoln was the love of our lives, and we will carry his memory with us always.

Detective Chief Inspector Alan Blakesley, who led the investigation, said: "My thoughts throughout this investigation, and today, remain with Lincoln's family and all those who knew and loved him."