MATTHEW SUTOR FROM WESTON-SUPER-MARE INVOLVED IN CHILD ABUSE IN SOUTH WALES

In July 2022, a disturbing case emerged involving Matthew Sutor, a man from Weston-super-Mare, Somerset, who was found responsible for inflicting serious injuries on a young child in South Wales during the summer of 2021. The incident drew significant attention during a sentencing hearing at Cardiff Crown Court, revealing the extent of the harm caused and the circumstances surrounding the injuries.

According to court records, Sutor left a young child, whose identity is protected for legal reasons, with multiple injuries including a fractured rib and bruises. The injuries were discovered after concerns about the child's wellbeing prompted medical examinations. A paediatrician who examined the child identified three distinct bruises: a 5cm bruise on the inner side of the right knee, a 2.5cm bruise on the outer side of the left knee, and another 2.5cm bruise on the outer side of the right knee. Additionally, a CT scan revealed that the child had suffered a rib fracture, which showed signs of healing, indicating that the injury had occurred some time prior.

Initially, Sutor claimed that the injuries had been caused accidentally, but as investigations progressed, he admitted to being responsible. During the court proceedings, it was revealed that Sutor had attempted to shift blame onto another child, denying his involvement. However, on August 1 of the previous year, Sutor confided in another individual, admitting responsibility for the injuries. When questioned by authorities about the marks on the child, he responded, “Yes I believe I did but I am not going to tell you details.”

Following this confession, police were alerted, and Sutor was arrested. During his police interview, he acknowledged that he had caused some of the injuries, specifically mentioning an incident where he squeezed the child “really hard,” which caused the child to scream loudly. Prosecutor Tabitha Walker explained that Sutor described the squeeze as a “short sharp burst,” but emphasized that it was “really hard,” indicating excessive force.

Sutor also claimed that his actions might have been influenced by his physical state at the time, stating that he had been to the gym and was “still pumped,” which contributed to his rough handling. He cited stress, financial difficulties, and marital problems as factors affecting his behaviour during the incident.

The injuries, including the fractured rib and bruises, were inflicted during two separate incidents, both involving excessive force. The prosecution highlighted that these injuries could not have been accidental, as they caused significant pain and discomfort to the child. Sutor, who has no prior criminal convictions, pleaded guilty to two counts of assault occasioning actual bodily harm.

The victim’s mother provided a victim personal statement, describing the incident as “inexcusable” and expressing the profound impact it had on her and her child. She revealed that she had been overwhelmed with grief, crying uncontrollably every day following the discovery of the injuries.

During sentencing, Recorder Paul Hobson condemned Sutor’s actions, criticizing his attempt to blame the child and his reluctance to accept responsibility. The judge remarked that Sutor’s failure to admit guilt until months later demonstrated a lack of remorse and described his behaviour as a “loss of temper.” Despite the injuries not requiring medical attention at the time, the court noted the severity of the force used and the lasting impact on the child.

Ultimately, Sutor was sentenced to three years in prison for his actions, marking a serious consequence for his conduct in Weston-super-Mare and South Wales.