DAVE BIGGART AND ASHLEIGH BROWN SENTENCED FOR HORRIFIC CHILD ABUSE IN CARLISLE

A disturbing case of severe child abuse in Carlisle has culminated in the conviction and sentencing of two individuals, David Biggart and Ashleigh Brown. The investigation was sparked by medical professionals who identified alarming injuries on a young child, prompting a swift police response.

In August 2022, healthcare workers at the Cumberland Infirmary noticed the child's condition was critically deteriorating. The injuries observed were so severe that the child was transferred to the Royal Victoria Infirmary for specialized treatment. The injuries included trauma to the child's head and body, accompanied by extensive bruising, indicating a pattern of sustained and violent abuse.

Following the medical findings, authorities quickly moved to arrest the suspects. David Biggart, aged 30, and Ashleigh Brown, aged 31, were taken into custody on charges related to child neglect. During police interviews, both individuals attempted to deny any responsibility, claiming that the injuries might have been self-inflicted. However, medical examinations and investigations painted a different picture, revealing clear signs of inflicted trauma rather than accidental or self-harm injuries.

Detective Constable Lisa Atkinson, who is part of the Carlisle & Wigton CID, expressed her satisfaction with the outcome of the case. She stated, “*I am pleased that these two individuals have been removed from society and are now in prison. The injuries which this defenceless child suffered were sickening. Despicably, when initially questioned by detectives, both attempted to suggest that the injuries were self-inflicted. It is the job of the police to investigate such cases and bring offenders to justice. However, such cases do leave a lasting impact on those who investigate them. I hope that this child can now move on with his life, now that he is safe from those who inflicted such horrific abuse.*”

As a result of the investigation and subsequent legal proceedings, Biggart received a prison sentence of nine years and four months, reflecting the severity of the abuse. Brown was sentenced to 31 months behind bars. The case highlights the ongoing issues of child abuse and neglect within communities, and the importance of vigilant medical and law enforcement responses to protect vulnerable children from harm.