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Drunk Dad Injures Newborn in Reckless Rage
2 Oct
Summary
- Father struck infant son while drunk and lashing out.
- He lied to hospital staff about the baby's injuries.
- Oakley received a 14-month prison sentence for ABH.
Ernest Oakley, 32, has been sentenced to 14 months in prison for assaulting his 26-day-old son. The incident occurred in November 2023 when Oakley, while intoxicated, lashed out in anger at an individual holding his infant son. The baby was struck during this outburst, resulting in an injury to the right side of his head.
Oakley initially brought his son to Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital, providing a false account of the injury, claiming another child had accidentally kicked the newborn. Concerns were raised by medical staff, particularly after the baby was transferred to Addenbrooke's Hospital. Police arrested Oakley, but he continued to deny responsibility until a trial date was set.
At Norwich Crown Court, Oakley pleaded guilty to assault causing actual bodily harm (ABH). The court was informed that the infant's injury was a result of his father's recklessness. Detective Constable Rachel Woods of Norfolk Police emphasized their commitment to protecting children and prosecuting offenders.
