A father has been sentenced to prison for causing the death of his three-month-old son by shaking him, despite initially claiming the infant fell off his lap. Bradley Thomas, described as “sleep deprived,” fatally injured his son, Emmerson-Oak, through violent shaking on October 5 of the previous year, a court revealed.
Following the incident, Emmerson experienced breathing difficulties and unusual arm movements, but Thomas delayed calling emergency services for 30 minutes after waking his partner. The baby was hospitalized at James Cook University Hospital before being transferred to Newcastle’s Royal Victoria Infirmary, where he passed away on October 8, at just three months and 16 days old.
Thomas, aged 23, was found guilty of murder at Teesside Crown Court and received a life sentence with a minimum term of 14 years. Mr. Justice Sheldon KC, during sentencing, highlighted that Emmerson was a cheerful baby who had a promising future, tragically cut short by Thomas’ actions.
The court learned that Thomas, suffering from sleep deprivation, grew frustrated when Emmerson would not settle during the night, despite an agreement with his partner to handle nighttime care. While Thomas expressed regret for the harm inflicted on his son, he initially misled authorities about the circumstances, falsely claiming the baby fell from his knee.
Senior Investigating Officer, T/Detective Superintendent Deb Fenny, described the investigation as distressing, emphasizing the tragic loss of a young life. She acknowledged the collective effort of the investigative team, emergency responders, forensic experts, and legal professionals in bringing justice for Emmerson-Oak. The professionalism and dedication displayed throughout the case were commended, emphasizing the importance of ensuring the victim’s story was heard and justice served.
