CHRISTOPHER BARNES SHAKES BABY IN MIDHURST AND CAUSES HIS DEATH

In March 2019, a tragic case unfolded involving Christopher Barnes, a 28-year-old heating engineer residing on Barlavington Way in Midhurst, West Sussex. Barnes was convicted of the manslaughter of his 10-week-old son, Harry, who tragically died in June 2017 as a result of severe brain injuries caused by violent shaking.

Barnes was sentenced at Lewes Crown Court to a term of six and a half years in prison for his role in Harry's death. The court's verdict followed a detailed ten-day trial during which the evidence against Barnes was thoroughly examined. The prosecution presented compelling forensic evidence indicating that Harry's injuries were consistent with being shaken violently, a conclusion supported by expert pathologists.

Harry was admitted to Southampton General Hospital on June 24, 2017, after collapsing at home. Medical professionals observed that the infant had suffered head trauma and other injuries. Despite efforts to save him, Harry's condition deteriorated, and he was placed on life support. The following day, after the withdrawal of life support, Harry passed away. The forensic examination confirmed that his death was caused by a brain injury resulting from violent shaking, a form of abuse often associated with frustration or anger from caregivers.

Detective Chief Inspector Emma Heater, of the Surrey and Sussex Major Crime Team, provided insight into the case, stating, "His heart stopped beating and he stopped breathing. He had suffered profound injury to his brain. He never regained consciousness and died the next day after life support was withdrawn."

She added, "The evidence was clear that Christopher Barnes had become frustrated with Harry and had caused his injuries. Harry should have been safe with his father, whose duty it was to love and protect his child. Barnes's actions have had a devastating impact on Harry's entire family."

In a heartfelt statement issued through Sussex Police, Harry's mother, Laura Millins, expressed her grief and the significance of the court's decision. She said, "We now have justice for Harry after going through something so traumatic that has changed our lives forever. As we approach what would have been Harry's second birthday, we finally have the truth. Harry will always be in our hearts."

The case has prompted further scrutiny from child safeguarding authorities. The West Sussex Safeguarding Children’s Board is currently conducting a serious case review to understand better the circumstances surrounding Harry's death and to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

This heartbreaking incident underscores the devastating consequences of child abuse and highlights the importance of vigilance and intervention in cases of suspected harm to vulnerable infants. The community and authorities continue to mourn the loss of Harry and seek to ensure such a tragedy does not happen again.