DEAN COCHRANE'S HORRIFIC CRIME IN MIDDLESBROUGH: CHILD ABUSE SHOCKER

In August 2011, a disturbing case of child abuse unfolded in Middlesbrough, involving Dean Cochrane, a 24-year-old man whose violent actions left a young toddler with devastating injuries. The court heard that Cochrane inflicted severe trauma on the innocent girl, resulting in two fractured skulls, a multitude of bruises totaling 68, and significant swelling of her scalp. The brutality of the assault was so profound that police officers involved in the case were visibly distressed, describing it as one of the most horrific instances of child abuse they had ever encountered.

During the trial at Teesside Crown Court, Cochrane refused to accept responsibility for the injuries he caused. Instead, he attempted to shift blame onto the child's family, denying any involvement in the assault. As the judge delivered the sentence, Cochrane audibly shouted 'nice one' in a show of defiance. The child's mother, meanwhile, had already been sentenced to four months in prison, suspended for two years, after admitting to child cruelty by neglect, highlighting the complex and troubling circumstances surrounding the case.

The court detailed the extent of the child's injuries, which included a complex fracture to the right side of her skull—likely caused by being struck with a heavy object or having her head forcefully banged against a surface. Additional impact resulted in a fracture on the left side and bleeding on the brain, indicating multiple episodes of violence. The child's injuries also included a bite mark on her shoulder, which Cochrane admitted to causing. Experts confirmed his guilt by matching his dental prints to the bite mark, though Cochrane claimed he bit her only to teach her 'not to bite others.'

Further evidence revealed that Cochrane attempted to conceal the injuries by applying talcum powder and ink to the child's skin, an act that underscored his attempt to hide the severity of the abuse. The court was told that Cochrane resided in Grangetown, Middlesbrough, and had a troubling history of violence, including attacks on friends, neighbors, and a former girlfriend. His criminal record included convictions for affray and battery in 2007, and he was on bail for child abuse when he committed a series of violent and disorderly acts.

In March of the previous year, Cochrane received a suspended prison sentence after smashing the windows of a house involved in a dispute. The following July, he was found armed with a baseball bat—initially thought to be a sword—during a fight near his home. Just three months later, he threatened to set fire to a friend's property if he disclosed that Cochrane had stolen a television from his residence. His violent tendencies extended to his personal relationships, as he was convicted of common assault after throwing a bottle at a former partner during an argument.

After a seven-day trial, Cochrane was convicted on multiple charges, including causing grievous bodily harm with intent, causing actual bodily harm, and child cruelty. The presiding judge, Recorder Carl Gumsley, condemned Cochrane's lack of remorse and his troubling criminal history. He emphasized that Cochrane's record of violence and bullying posed a significant risk to the public, justifying the imposition of a sentence of imprisonment for public protection. The judge described the child's injuries as 'truly appalling' and expressed uncertainty about how, when, or why they were inflicted, underscoring the heinous nature of the crime.

Police officials welcomed the verdict, noting that the child had recovered quickly and appeared to be coping well despite her injuries. Detective Constable Rebecca Lisle commented on the case, stating, 'The injuries the child sustained were horrific and sickened even the most experienced child protection officers. Cochrane refused to admit his guilt. He has tried to blame others for the crimes he committed in an attempt to evade justice. His attempts failed.'

Throughout the proceedings, it was revealed that Cochrane's violent history was extensive, including attacks on acquaintances and previous convictions for affray and battery. He was also on bail for child abuse when he committed additional acts of violence and disorder. In March of the previous year, he was given a suspended sentence for damaging property, and in July, he was involved in a fight armed with a baseball bat. His pattern of violence extended to threats and assaults against former partners, illustrating a persistent pattern of aggressive behavior. The court heard that Cochrane's actions in Middlesbrough demonstrated a troubling pattern of violence that culminated in the horrific abuse of a vulnerable child, leaving a lasting scar on the community and the victim's life.