Kandyce Downer is a Birmingham, England mother of four and business student.

She adopted a baby named Keegan Downer.

Before being arrested she was in the process of divorcing her husband who was a cousin of Keegan and was pregnant by her married boyfriend.

^[0]

Allegations

Kandyce Downer, 34, killed 18-month-old Keegan Downer less than a year after she was appointed her legal guardian ^[1].

The toddler had 153 scars and bruises and suffered what police described as "barbaric and evil" treatment, sustaining brain and spinal injuries ^[1].

Downer, who must serve at least 18 years, told Birmingham Crown Court her eldest son had caused the injuries.

Keegan died on 5 September 2015.

Before calling 999, Downer dumped her blood-spotted mattress, the court heard ^[1].

Kandyce was alleged to be addicted to heroin ^[1].