Alfie Steele verdicts: Residents give their reaction

Following a six-week trial at Coventry Crown Court Dirk Howell, 41, of Princip Street, Birmingham, was found guilty of murdering the nine-year-old while Carla Scott, 35, was found guilty of manslaughter.

The pair are set to learn their fates when they are sentenced on Thursday, (June 15). 

BOY: Alfie Steele (Image: West Mercia Police)

We visited Vashon Drive on Wednesday - the road where the family lived and emergency services tried to save his life in February 2021. 

One resident told us they were "very pleased" when they heard the verdicts.

READ MORE: Mum and partner found guilty of killing nine-year-old Alfie Steele

READ MORE: Remembering Alfie: "Courageous" smiling nine-year-old who lived at house of horrors

READ MORE: Alfie Steele's grandad speaks of sadness they will never see 'cheeky smile' again

"Hopefully they go down for a long time," the resident said.

Another told us "It is a tragedy. The poor little boy didn't deserve it. 

"I'm hoping they get what they deserve.

ROAD: Vashon Drive (Image: Sam Greenway/Newsquest)

"Hopefully they both get life and throw away the key."

After the verdicts, the grandad of Alfie Steele, Paul Scott, gave a statement in which he said: "Our precious grandson Alfie was a charming, funny and inquisitive young boy whose kindness and cheeky smile was enough to melt your heart.

VERDICTS: Dirk Howell and Carla Scott (Image: West Mercia Police)

“He had a unique personality that made him a treasure to be around, whether it was his comical phrases or his quirky dance moves, he knew how to make you laugh and cry joyous tears.

“It fills us with immense sadness that we will never be able to see that same cheeky smile again.

“Losing Alfie has left a massive void in our lives, to think that we will never be able to hug him and watch him grow into an accomplished young man causes much anguish."