BOOTLE MAN MATHEW OWEN SENTENCED FOR CHILD CRUELTY INVOLVING SEVERE INJURIES TO BABY IN LIVERPOOL

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Bootle and the wider Liverpool area, a young man named Mathew Owen was sentenced to prison after being found responsible for inflicting serious injuries on a seven-week-old infant. The incident, which took place in January 2012, involved the baby suffering a total of 19 distinct injuries, including cuts and bruises, which were consistent with being slapped and scratched.

According to court proceedings, the injuries were initially noticed by a family member who was reviewing photographs of the infant taken on a mobile phone. These images revealed multiple marks on the child's body, prompting immediate concern and action. The family member's observations led to the police being contacted, and the infant was swiftly taken to Alder Hey Hospital for medical examination.

Medical professionals at Alder Hey conducted a thorough assessment of the baby’s injuries. A consultant identified evidence of physical trauma, including a scratch on the baby’s neck and bruising on the right arm, back, and abdomen. The severity of these injuries raised alarm bells, prompting further investigation into their cause.

Mathew Owen, aged 22 and a resident of Bootle, was subsequently brought in for questioning. His address was not disclosed publicly due to legal reasons. During police interviews, Owen initially claimed that he had accidentally scratched the baby with his long nails after the infant fell from his grasp. However, medical reports and expert analysis contradicted his account, indicating that the injuries were more consistent with finger imprints and slap marks rather than accidental trauma.

Further complicating the case was Owen’s admission of drug use. He acknowledged to police that he had been under the influence of cannabis to a significant extent at the time of the incident. This detail added to the seriousness of the case, highlighting the potential impact of substance abuse on his judgment and actions.

In court, Judge Robert Warnock addressed the gravity of the offense, emphasizing that such acts of child cruelty are profoundly serious. While the injuries were not the most severe ever seen, they were nonetheless disturbing and indicative of a grave breach of trust and care. The judge stated, “Nobody should be in any doubt whatsoever as to the seriousness of this offence. I have looked at the photos relating to the injuries. While they are not the worst of their kind they are nonetheless disturbing. It is obvious to anybody who has heard this case that this matter crosses the custody threshold.”

Prosecutor Robert Jansen highlighted the defendant’s failure in his duty of care towards the vulnerable infant. He pointed out that Owen had a responsibility to protect the child, which he egregiously neglected. The case also underscored the importance of vigilance and prompt reporting; a family member’s quick action prevented the injuries from going unnoticed for an extended period, potentially averting more severe consequences. Jansen emphasized, “This case shows how absolutely crucial it is for people to call the police if they suspect a child is being harmed in any way. Fortunately, this time the baby suffered no long-term ill-effects.”

During the hearing, Owen pleaded guilty to child cruelty, and the court sentenced him to eight months in prison. His defense attorney, David Roberts, acknowledged that Owen accepted the medical findings that the injuries were not accidental, which played a role in the sentencing decision.

Judge Warnock concluded by reaffirming the seriousness of the crime, making it clear that such conduct warrants significant punishment. The case serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of child abuse and the critical importance of safeguarding vulnerable children in the community of Bootle and beyond.