Man Jailed for Rare Child Destruction Conviction

A man identified as Stefan Marin has been handed a 20-year extended sentence for the rare and "utterly vile" offense of child destruction. The conviction stems from a violent attack on his then-partner in Hull in March 2025, which led to the death of their unborn child. This marks the first such conviction by Humberside Police and is only the fourth nationally in the last decade.

During the trial, the victim described repeated physical assaults, including attempts to protect her stomach, which Marin forcibly removed. Passers-by discovered her severely injured and covered in blood, leading to her identification of the attacker before medical attention. An ultrasound at Hull Royal Infirmary confirmed the absence of the baby's heartbeat.

Marin was also found guilty of grievous bodily harm with intent, false imprisonment, intentional strangulation, and perverting the course of justice. Mr. Justice Goss imposed a custodial period of 16 years with an additional four-year extended license, deeming Marin a dangerous offender. Mitigating factors, including Marin's age and past experiences, were considered, but the judge emphasized the gravity of the offenses. The victim delivered a powerful statement, describing her physical and memory issues as constant reminders, but stated her deepest wound was the loss of her son. Prosecutors condemned the attack as "the lowest of the low," noting Marin's lack of remorse throughout the proceedings. A destruction order for seized cannabis and a restraining order against contacting the victim were also imposed.