CAROLINE WELDEN FROM AUCHINLECK SENTENCED FOR HORRIFIC BABY ABUSE IN AYRSHIRE

In a disturbing case that has shocked the local community, Caroline Welden, a woman residing in Auchinleck, was found guilty of inflicting severe abuse upon a vulnerable infant. The case, which was brought to light at Ayr Sheriff Court, revealed a heartbreaking timeline of neglect and cruelty during the first three months of the child's life.

According to court proceedings, the baby, whose injuries were both extensive and severe, suffered from at least 14 broken bones. Despite the obvious signs of trauma, Welden, who was entrusted with the care of the infant, failed to seek any medical assistance or intervene to alleviate the child's suffering. Instead, she continued to neglect her responsibilities, allowing the injuries to worsen and the child's condition to deteriorate.

The court heard that the abuse occurred between May 8 and August 18, 2006, at a residence on Cameron Drive in Auchinleck. During this period, Welden was living at an address in Auchinleck and was responsible for the child's welfare. She admitted to charges of wilfully neglecting the baby, failing to provide necessary medical treatment, and abandoning her in a manner that was likely to cause suffering and harm to her health.

Welden, who was also residing at St Andrew’s Hostel in Kilmarnock in the lead-up to her court appearance, pleaded guilty to the charges under the Child and Young Persons Act 1937. Her actions, described by the court as particularly heinous, resulted in the infant enduring unnecessary pain and injury. Fortunately, the child has since made a full recovery, despite the trauma inflicted upon her.

Judge Jack McGowan, presiding over the case, expressed his profound disgust at the treatment the innocent newborn had suffered. He sentenced Welden to four years in Cornton Vale prison, emphasizing the seriousness of her crimes. The judge described the abuse as “particularly nasty,” underscoring the gravity of the neglect and cruelty involved.

Supporters of justice, including Carrick, Cumnock and Doon Valley MSP and former Scottish justice minister Cathy Jamieson, have commented on the case. Jamieson stated, “It looks as if people have acted quickly in this case and appropriate action has been taken. Any time a custodial sentence is imposed shows how serious the court regards it. And for this length of sentence to be given, it must have been pretty serious.”