THOMAS HIGGINS BRUTAL ATTACK IN YATE LEAVES BABY WITH SEVERE BRAIN DAMAGE

In August 2018, a devastating incident occurred in Yate that would forever alter the life of a three-month-old infant. Thomas Higgins, a 21-year-old soldier, was responsible for a brutal assault on the young child, an act that has been described by the court as one of extreme violence and recklessness. The attack involved severe shaking, which resulted in catastrophic injuries that the medical team at Bristol Children’s Hospital confirmed to be non-accidental.

When the baby was brought into the hospital, medical professionals observed alarming signs: the infant had arms raised and fists clenched, indicative of distress and trauma. The diagnosis revealed a severe brain injury, a displaced fracture to the left femur, a collapsed lung, retinal hemorrhages in both eyes, and extensive bruising across the shoulder, neck, jaw, spine, and head. These injuries pointed to a sustained period of uncontrolled force and violent shaking, leaving the child with lifelong consequences.

Prosecutors at Bristol Crown Court detailed the extent of the damage inflicted. Ian Fenny, representing the prosecution, emphasized that the injuries were not accidental but the result of deliberate violence. The injuries inflicted on the infant are described as life-changing, with ongoing medical needs and a prognosis that remains uncertain. The court heard that the child's condition is still critical, and their future remains compromised due to the severity of the trauma.

Thomas Higgins initially denied any involvement when questioned by police. However, after further investigation, he admitted to inflicting grievous bodily harm with intent. During the court proceedings, Higgins described an 'explosion of emotions' but ultimately chose to remain silent when asked about the specifics of the incident. The court found no evidence suggesting he was under the influence of alcohol or drugs, nor was there any indication of mental illness.

Higgins, who had served in the Tank Regiment after leaving school, was facing a dishonourable discharge from the military following his conviction. Judge Mark Horton sentenced him to nine years and nine months in prison, condemning his actions as a brutal attack that has robbed the child of a normal or meaningful life. The judge expressed profound disappointment, stating, “Tragedy is simply too small a word to describe the consequences to that child or what you did to it.” He further remarked that Higgins had provided no explanation for his actions and that the attack had stolen the child's potential for a normal life, leaving lifelong scars both physically and emotionally.