TRACY MCKENZIE AND SCOTT COLMAN FROM OSWALDTWISTLE FACE JUSTICE OVER BABY'S SEVERE INJURIES

In a case that has shocked the community of Oswaldtwistle, Lancashire, two parents, Tracy McKenzie and Scott Colman, have admitted to neglecting their infant son, who suffered a series of severe injuries that included broken bones and a fractured skull. The disturbing details of the case emerged during court proceedings, revealing the extent of the child's injuries and the circumstances surrounding their discovery.

According to reports, the child's injuries were discovered in December 2012 when he was brought to the Royal Blackburn Hospital. Medical professionals found that the baby had sustained multiple fractures, including to the skull, spine, and ribs. Additionally, he had suffered from brain haemorrhages and retinal haemorrhages, indicating significant trauma. The injuries also included a fracture to the left tibia, which is a bone in the lower leg. The severity of these injuries prompted an investigation by Lancashire Police’s child protection unit.

During the court proceedings, prosecutors stated that the defendants, Colman, aged 30, residing on New Lane in Oswaldtwistle, and McKenzie, aged 40, from Rhyddings Street in Oswaldtwistle, had pleaded guilty to child neglect. The basis for their plea was that they failed to seek medical assistance for their son despite the evident injuries. It was also revealed that prosecutors decided not to pursue a second charge of cruelty to a child, which was related to the baby’s twin sibling.

Initially, Scott Colman had denied any allegations of neglect. However, he later admitted to the charge before the trial commenced at Burnley Crown Court last week. Tracy McKenzie, on the other hand, admitted to neglect during the second day of her trial in February. Her admission came after the court heard evidence suggesting that the injuries could have resulted from the child being hit against a flat surface or struck with a blunt object. The court also learned that the child had suffered fractures to five ribs, two vertebrae, and a leg, further emphasizing the extent of the trauma.

Prosecutor Hugh McKee explained that the injuries came to light after Colman took the baby to the hospital because he was unwell. During the examination, medical staff also checked the twin sibling, revealing a healing injury caused by someone forcefully gripping the child's left arm. This evidence pointed to a pattern of abuse or neglect that had gone unnoticed until the hospital visit.

Both defendants are scheduled to be sentenced on Monday, December 8. The court proceedings have highlighted the tragic consequences of neglect and the importance of timely medical intervention in safeguarding vulnerable children. The case continues to draw attention to the responsibilities of parents and the role of authorities in protecting children from harm in the Oswaldtwistle area.