Constance Marten, 39, remains incarcerated at HMP Bronzefield in Surrey, where she is serving a 14-year sentence for the gross negligence manslaughter of her newborn daughter, Victoria. Since her conviction in July last year, Marten has taken on an unusual role within the prison population of approximately 500 women, acting as a self-styled advocate or “convicts’ counsel,” often voicing concerns about inmates’ rights, mental health support, and conditions such as food quality and access to gym facilities.

Originally from an aristocratic background with family ties to the British Royal Family, Marten’s life took a dramatic turn after she became involved with Mark Gordon, a convicted rapist. Their relationship, described by acquaintances as controlling and abusive, led to a descent into poverty and instability. In January 2023, Marten and Gordon fled to avoid their newborn daughter being taken into care, as had happened with their four older children. They were apprehended after a seven-week nationwide search, and shortly afterward, Victoria’s body was found abandoned in a shed on the South Downs in East Sussex, where the family had been living in a tent.

During their retrial, both Marten and Gordon were found guilty of gross negligence manslaughter, having previously been convicted of child cruelty, concealing the birth, and perverting the course of justice. Marten asserted that Victoria died after she unintentionally smothered the baby while breastfeeding, but the judge ruled that the infant died of hypothermia due to prolonged exposure in freezing conditions.

Marten has consistently denied responsibility for her daughter’s death, characterizing the conviction as unjust and expressing loyalty to Gordon throughout the legal proceedings. However, recent reports suggest that she may be reevaluating her relationship with him, potentially attributing greater blame to her partner as she prepares to mount legal challenges against her conviction and sentence. She has been granted permission to appeal her sentence and is seeking renewed approval to appeal the conviction itself, though the specific grounds for these challenges remain undisclosed.

Inside Bronzefield, Marten shares House Block Four with several high-profile prisoners, including Beinash Batool, convicted of manslaughter in the death of Sara Sharif, and nurse Lucy Letby, serving multiple whole life orders for the murder of infants. Marten and Letby reportedly have developed a rapport, frequently discussing their respective appeals, despite having notably different demeanors.

Marten’s time in prison has been marked by frequent complaints to authorities, especially regarding restrictions on communication with Gordon, who is held at HMP Belmarsh. Prison rules prevent direct contact between inmates involved in the same crime held at different facilities, though indirect communication via third parties is permitted. Marten has contested these restrictions, citing alleged human rights infringements.

Observers inside the prison note that Marten’s advocacy and legal focus may serve as mechanisms for self-protection and maintaining influence among fellow inmates, though some prison staff regard her as manipulative. Beyond her public school confidence and educated background, she has become known for challenging prison staff, including senior officials, over conditions and treatment.

Marten’s legal challenges are anticipated to continue, potentially increasing the costs borne by public funds—already estimated to exceed £1 million in legal aid. Questions also remain regarding Gordon’s legal status and whether he intends to pursue appeals of his own. Their future, both legally and personally, remains uncertain as they confront the consequences of their convictions.