Stephen Boden has been sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 29 years for the murder of his eight-month-old son, Finley Boden. The child's mother, Shannon Marsden, received a life sentence with a minimum term of 27 years for manslaughter. The sentencing took place at Derby Crown Court on May 24, 2024, following Finley’s death on Christmas Day 2020, in Chesterfield.

Finley Boden died after sustaining over 80 injuries, including 71 fractures, ten broken ribs, and a fractured collarbone. Medical evidence presented during the trial indicated these injuries were inflicted in the weeks leading up to his death. The parents had regained custody of Finley just 39 days before his death, after he had been living with social services due to neglect concerns.

The court heard that Finley endured a "campaign of violence" during his short life. A post-mortem examination revealed the extensive nature of his injuries, which medical professionals described as causing "absolute agony" and being "horrendous." The severity of the trauma underscored a pattern of abuse. Concerns had been raised by relatives regarding Finley's welfare, which were also presented in court. Both parents were reported to be heavy cannabis users.

Detective Inspector Kris Milsom of Derbyshire Police described the case as "horrific" due to the extreme suffering endured by the infant. The judge, Mr. Justice Baker, highlighted the deliberate and sustained nature of the abuse. The sentencing marks a conclusion to the criminal proceedings, bringing legal accountability for Finley's death.

Following the tragic events, a review is currently underway by the Derbyshire Safeguarding Children Partnership. This review aims to examine the involvement of all agencies leading up to Finley’s death, including social services and the Family Court system that sanctioned his return to his parents' care. The findings of this multi-agency review are anticipated to provide further insight into the circumstances surrounding Finley's case and potential areas for improvement in child protection protocols.