Kent Offender Anthony Smith Released from Prison Despite Severe Child Abuse

Anthony Smith, also known as Tony Smith, was a biological parent of Tony Hudgell, a boy from Kent who suffered severe abuse as a baby, leading to the amputation of both his legs. Smith was sentenced to 10 years in prison in 2018 for his role in the abuse. Despite this, the Parole Board recently decided to release him early, citing that imprisonment was no longer necessary for public safety. His release is subject to strict licence conditions, including good behaviour, living at a designated address, and disclosing developing relationships. The decision was made during an oral hearing on 19 June, with evidence presented from his probation officer, prison psychologist, and Smith himself. His release has caused significant distress; his adoptive mother, Paula Hudgell, described the decision as "deeply upsetting" and "a betrayal of justice," emphasizing that Smith was "evil" and had shown no remorse for his actions. Meanwhile, Smith’s ex-partner, Jody Simpson, was also jailed for 10 years in 2018 for her part in the abuse. She was recently released from prison. Smith’s case was previously considered unsuitable for parole in June 2023 due to risks of reoffending and gaining access to children. The case drew public attention due to the severity of the abuse inflicted on Tony Hudgell, who has since become a charity campaigner and was awarded a British Empire Medal for his efforts in child abuse prevention.