COURT SENTENCES COURTNEY STRONG AND TOBY LUCAS FOR CHILD ABUSE ON THE ISLE OF WIGHT

Two individuals have been sentenced to custodial terms for the severe physical abuse of a child on the Isle of Wight, following an in-depth investigation by specialist officers.

On 2 May 2025, Portsmouth Crown Court convicted and sentenced 29-year-old Toby Lucas of Sunset Close, Freshwater, and 25-year-old Courtney Strong of Medeway, Sandown. Both defendants admitted charges of assault, ill-treatment, or neglect of a child under ten, and inflicting unnecessary suffering or injury. They chose not to contest the evidence during an earlier hearing, entering guilty pleas.

**Discovery and Nature of the Abuse**

Video footage obtained by the Isle of Wight Child Abuse Investigation Team (CAIT) showed the victim, a child under ten, tied with tape and subjected to repeated physical violence by Lucas. Strong was present throughout the assault but did not intervene or notify authorities. The footage clearly displayed injuries consistent with sustained assault and visible distress on the child.

**Investigation and Charges**

The CAIT initiated the inquiry after concerns were raised by a third party. Investigators examined digital devices, obtained medical assessments of the child's injuries, and gathered witness statements. Under Section 1 of the Children and Young Persons Act 1933, both defendants were charged with 'assault, ill-treatment or neglect of a child likely to cause unnecessary suffering or injury,' to which they subsequently pleaded guilty.

**Sentencing Outcomes**

Toby Lucas was sentenced to an extended custodial term of ten years. The court decided an extended sentence was justified due to Lucas’s prominent role in inflicting deliberate and extensive harm, as well as the ongoing risk he posed.

Courtney Strong received a 30-month prison sentence, reflecting her failure to protect the child despite being aware of the abuse.

Both sentences include minimum terms before parole eligibility, in accordance with the Criminal Justice Act 2003, emphasizing public safety and extended sentencing measures.

**Police Response and Wider Commitment**

PC Sheryl Taylor from the Isle of Wight CAIT described the abuse as 'nothing short of horrific,' highlighting the severity of the injuries and emotional trauma inflicted. She stated, 'No child should ever have to endure this level of cruelty. Our team remains resolutely committed to safeguarding vulnerable children and ensuring that perpetrators face the full weight of the law.'

**Support for Victims and Reporting Channels**

Authorities encourage anyone with information about child abuse to contact Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary via 101, or call 999 in emergencies. Confidential reporting is available. Support services such as the NSPCC helpline at 0808 800 5000 and Childline at 0800 1111 offer counseling and guidance for children and families affected by abuse.

**Next Steps in Child Protection**

The CAIT continues working with social care agencies to aid the victim’s recovery and review safeguarding procedures locally. This case highlights the importance of early intervention and multi-agency cooperation in protecting children. Authorities reaffirm their dedication to investigating all reports of harm and preventing future tragedies.