MALDON MAN MATTHEW ANSELL SENTENCED FOR LIFE OVER TOLLESBURY BABY'S MURDER

In a tragic case that has shocked the Essex community, Matthew Ansell, aged 40, of Maldon, was sentenced to life imprisonment for the murder of his infant son, Harry Ansell. The heartbreaking incident unfolded in October 2004, but the legal proceedings culminated recently when Ansell was found guilty at Chelmsford Crown Court.

Harry, a mere five months old, suffered fatal injuries after an incident that took place on a boat moored at Tollesbury Yacht Harbour, a well-known location in Essex. The young child's death was confirmed at Colchester General Hospital, where he was taken following the injuries sustained on the boat. The court heard that Harry was living with his mother and Ansell aboard the boat in Tollesbury at the time of the incident.

During the trial, the prosecution presented evidence suggesting that Ansell had physically assaulted the baby. It was alleged that he had picked up Harry and swung him around by the legs, causing his head to strike a surface. Ansell, however, denied the accusations, claiming that the injuries occurred when the baby fell from his arms while he was feeding him. Despite his denial, medical examinations revealed injuries consistent with non-accidental trauma.

A post-mortem examination confirmed that Harry died due to injuries inflicted intentionally, including three fractures to his legs and severe head trauma. The court's verdict reflected the gravity of the injuries and the circumstances surrounding the child's death.

Following the conviction, Judge Jane Smith ordered that Ansell serve a minimum of 15 years before he could be considered for parole, emphasizing the severity of the crime. The case was overseen by Essex Police, with Detective Sergeant Steve Harvey commenting on the tragedy: “Harry was an innocent four-month-old baby. He was defenseless when he was killed by his father Matthew Ansell and sustained three fractures to his legs as well as fatal head injuries.”

Det Sgt Harvey further expressed the profound sorrow felt by law enforcement and the community, stating, “The death of a child under any circumstances is a tragedy and, in these cases, there are no winners, just losers.” The case has left a lasting impact on the residents of Maldon and Tollesbury, highlighting the devastating consequences of violence against the most vulnerable members of society.