Jail for mother who violently shook her infant son

Boy 'has sustained life changing injuries and will always require specialist medical care'

A warning that this story contains information which some readers may find distressing.

A local woman who violently shook her infant son, causing irreversible brain damage, has been jailed.

It follows a case described by police officers as 'one of the most difficult investigations' they've ever dealt with.

She has not been named to prevent identification of her son, who cannot be named for legal reasons.

In December 2022, a 3-month-old baby boy was presented to medical professionals at Noble's Hospital in a life-threatening state.

He was given emergency medical treatment there before being flown to Alder Hey Children’s Hospital for specialist care. 

An investigation commenced and both parents were arrested.

However, as the investigation progressed, and further evidence was gathered, police heavily suspected that his mother had shaken him a number of times, causing irreparable damage to his brain.

Last year, she pleaded guilty to causing grievous bodily harm and has been sentenced to 30 months in prison.

The Isle of Man Constabulary, Manx Care and Social Care worked together to 'ensure the safe collection of evidence and safeguarding requirements were achieved by all agencies'. 

After prolonged hospital treatment at Alder Hey, and 'much to the amazement of the medical teams and police' the baby boy didn’t die of his injuries.

He was placed with a foster mother 'who has cared for him to this day and intends to continue to look after him moving forward'.

The boy 'has sustained life changing injuries and will always require specialist medical care'.

Detective Chief Inspector Michelle Maddocks, who headed the investigation with the assistance of specially trained detectives said: "This is one of the most difficult investigations I have been involved in, not only was the investigation complex in terms of securing the evidence but also because the child was healthy before he sustained the injuries caused by his mother, which is something very emotive. 

"The lady who has fostered the child is a hero in my eyes, without her the child would not have progressed the way he has, and I want to personally thank her for her commitment and love she has given to him. 

"I want to urge any parent that may be struggling with a new baby to seek help before matters go too far and irreparable damage is done. 

"Social Care and Manx Care both provide services that support parents and families and there is no shame in asking for help or recognising you may need it."

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