The family of 14-month-old Oakley Barnett have paid a heartfelt tribute to the beloved toddler who was murdered by his mother, saying 'their hearts ache.' Oakley's mother, Emma Barnett, 36, from Chester Road, Debden, was found guilty of Oakley's murder following an 18-day trial at Cambridge Crown Court on Thursday, May 28.
The court heard that she had given Oakley a fatal combination of prescription drugs and milk. She was later found holding him in a loft. The pair had initially been reported missing following a family court hearing on November 8, 2024, which had determined that Oakley should be taken into care. She is due to be sentenced at Cambridge Crown Court tomorrow, June 5.
Family tribute
Oakley's family released a moving tribute to their little boy, saying: 'Oakley filled every room with light, laughter, and love. With his beautiful curly hair and huge blue eyes, he captured the hearts of everyone who met him. His smile could brighten even the darkest day, and his gentle spirit brought so much happiness to our family.'
'Oakley loved watching Trolls, and there was something magical about seeing his face light up with excitement whenever his favourite characters appeared on the screen. Those simple moments, full of wonder and joy, are memories we will treasure forever.'
'Though he was only with us for a short time, Oakley filled our hearts. We will forever miss his cuddles, his laughter, and the happiness he brought into our lives. While our hearts ache with the loss of him, we are grateful for every second we were blessed to spend with him. Our beautiful boy will always be loved, always be remembered, and always remain a part of us.'
'Though we cannot hold him in our arms, we carry him in our hearts every day. We will forever grieve the memories we won't get to make, the milestones we won't get to witness, and the future that should have been his. But while Oakley was taken from our lives, he will never be taken from our hearts. His memory lives on in every story we share, every tear we cry, and every smile that comes from remembering that beautiful little boy.'
'Forever 14 months old. Forever loved. Forever missed. Forever our Oakley. Sleep peacefully, sweet Oakley. You were deeply loved, and you always will be.'
Father's tribute
Oakley's father also paid a moving tribute to his beloved son. He said: 'While I never got given the opportunity to get to know Oakley and experience the joy he brought to everyone else's lives. I wish I could have had the chance to experience that bond with him and get to learn of all of his favourite things and see the infectious smile those that got to spend that short time with him did.'
'I will forever have that ache in my heart of never being able to have that father son bond with him or be able to kick a ball together. I will forever love my little boy and miss him deeply.'
Police statement
Detective Inspector James Holmes, who led the investigation into Oakley's death, said: 'This time should be all about Oakley. I know how missed he is by all who loved him and the thoughts of my team and everyone at Essex Police remain with them.'
