SOUTHEND MAN BEN ATTHIS AND LISSA FIELD SENTENCED FOR CHILD NEGLECT AND ABUSE

In a disturbing case that shocked the community of Southend, two individuals were brought to justice for their involvement in the severe neglect and abuse of four vulnerable children. The incident came to light in March 2019 when the children, who had endured unimaginable suffering, disclosed the abuse they had been subjected to, prompting police intervention and subsequent court proceedings.

Ben Atthis, aged 34 and of no fixed address in Southend, faced serious charges after being accused of multiple acts of cruelty and neglect. He denied the allegations at trial, but the evidence presented in court painted a grim picture of the children's ordeal. The jury was told that the children had been subjected to verbal and mental abuse, physical violence, and were even locked in rooms against their will. Additionally, they were forced to collect drugs, further highlighting the extent of their exploitation and suffering.

Lissa Field, aged 32 and residing on Prospect Close in Southend, admitted to four counts of willfully ill-treating a child to cause unnecessary suffering in 2019. Her admission was a significant development in the case, which underscored the severity of the abuse inflicted upon the children.

Following a trial at Southend Crown Court, the court found Atthis guilty of the charges last month. The judge sentenced him to a total of four years in prison, reflecting the gravity of his actions and the need for justice for the victims. Field, on the other hand, received a 22-month prison sentence, which was suspended for two years, meaning she would not serve time unless she committed further offenses within that period.

The case has left a lasting impact on the local community, highlighting the importance of vigilance and intervention in protecting vulnerable children from harm. Both individuals are now serving or will serve their respective sentences, but the scars of their actions remain with the victims and their families.