NICHOLAS STUBBS AND REBECCA MASON SENTENCED FOR CHILD CRUELTY IN NORMACOT

In November 2014, a distressing incident unfolded in the Normacot area, where a young child endured severe physical injuries after an assault. The child sustained extensive cuts, bruises, and abrasions, which were initially misrepresented by authorities as injuries resulting from a fall. Despite the visible signs of trauma, the child was left untreated for nearly 12 hours before receiving medical attention.

Neighbours in the Normacot neighborhood reported hearing the child's cries emanating from a house, prompting concern among residents. It was later revealed that the child had been subjected to a brutal attack at the hands of Nicholas Stubbs, aged 22, of Mollison Road, Meir, and that Rebecca Mason, aged 21, of Holly Road, Chesterton, was present at the scene.

Following the incident, Stubbs and Mason were taken into custody. The police investigation uncovered that Stubbs had physically assaulted the child, while Mason failed to seek urgent medical help, thereby neglecting her responsibilities as a caregiver. The court proceedings at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court detailed the sequence of events and the injuries sustained.

During the trial, prosecutor Adam Pearson described the injuries as including bruises, abrasions, and cuts, which were confirmed by medical examinations. It was noted that the child had been given medication and ice applied to the injuries, but crucially, no hospital treatment was sought for hours afterward, raising serious concerns about the neglect involved.

Legal representatives for the defendants provided their perspectives. Paul Cliff, representing Stubbs, emphasized that the incident was isolated and expressed relief that the child showed no signs of long-term physical harm. Conversely, Mason's lawyer, Stuart Muldoon, indicated that his client would benefit from support from the probation service, suggesting a recognition of her role in the incident.

Judge David Fletcher delivered the sentences, condemning the actions of both individuals. Stubbs was sentenced to two years in prison after being convicted of two counts of child cruelty. Mason received an eight-month prison sentence, suspended for two years, along with an 18-month supervision order, after pleading guilty to a single count of child cruelty.

The judge emphasized the severity of the injuries and the vulnerability of the young victim. He criticized the defendants for their apparent lack of remorse and empathy, underscoring that the care of a child is one of the highest responsibilities entrusted to adults. The court's verdict highlighted the importance of safeguarding children and holding perpetrators accountable for their actions in the Normacot community.