A man who killed a two-year-old girl on his 15th birthday has now been released from prison. Karl McCluney, now 31, was jailed for 15 years in 2009 after brutally attacking little Demi Leigh Mahon in Salford.
The toddler suffered 68 injuries, including brain damage, and died after two days on life support. McCluney, who kicked, punched, and bit her, admitted he was “fed up” with babysitting. “She was only a small child and stood no chance,” the judge said during sentencing.
After a two-day parole hearing, the board ruled he showed “extreme shame and daily remorse.” Officials said keeping him in prison was “no longer necessary for public protection.” He must now live at a designated address and follow strict conditions, including a curfew.
The release has reopened deep wounds for Demi Leigh’s family, who continue to mourn her tragic death. Stories like this remind us how fragile trust can be—and why justice decisions often stir painful debate.
