Former Kent footballer Kiernan Hughes-Mason has been sentenced to 14 years in prison for causing grievous bodily harm and child cruelty after assaulting a two-year-old girl in January 2020, leaving her with life-altering injuries.
After a thorough trial at Basildon Crown Court, Hughes-Mason was found unanimously guilty on August 20, 2023.
The court proceedings revealed the extent of the child’s injuries and the impact on her family. On September 10, he was sentenced to 14 years in prison.
The victim’s family described the devastating impact of the assault, revealing that the child now suffers from severe physical and mental disabilities, including the inability to walk, sit, or stand independently.
She endures constant pain, has developed epilepsy, sleep disorders, and can no longer eat or drink without a feeding tube.
Despite these challenges, the victim’s family remains resilient, supporting her through the pain.
They cherish the moments they still get with her, affirming that her spirit shines through even the darkest times.
Hughes-Mason called paramedics on January 31, 2020, claiming he found the child unresponsive.
Doctors later identified 17 injuries, and she was placed in a coma for two weeks.
The former footballer was arrested and charged in November 2022.
Detective Sergeant Ellie Nudd from Essex Police’s Child Abuse Investigation Team condemned Hughes-Mason, calling him a “coward” for trying to cover up the assault.
She praised the bravery of the child and her family throughout the trial and credited the investigation team, ambulance service, and Crown Prosecution Service for securing the conviction.
Article updated 2 months ago. Content is written and modified by multiple authors.
