FRANKIE SMITH'S SENTENCE INCREASED TO 12 YEARS
The mother of toddler Star Hobson, who was murdered, has seen her sentence for her role in her daughter’s death increased to 12 years.Frankie Smith, age 20, was originally sentenced to eight years in custody at Bradford Crown Court last December.
The Attorney General, Suella Braverman, deemed this sentence too lenient and referred it to the Court of Appeal.
After review by three senior judges, the sentence was extended by four years.
During her seven-week trial, evidence revealed that Star was subjected to ongoing physical and psychological abuse by Smith and her partner, Savannah Brockhill, aged 28.
Brockhill received a minimum term of 25 years in prison for her involvement in the toddler's murder.
The court was informed that Star’s death at 16 months was the tragic culmination of a toxic relationship, with the child suffering fatal blunt-force injuries described as 'catastrophic.' Lady Justice Sharp, presiding over the Court of Appeal, stated that the initial sentence was insufficient because it did not adequately reflect the gravity of the offenses.
She criticized Smith’s attitude, noting her blatant disregard for her daughter’s safety and her failure to seek help or protect her, despite reports from family and visible bruises on Star.
The judge emphasised Star’s vulnerability due to her young age and commented that Smith remained in the harmful relationship for selfish reasons.
She contrasted the original sentencing with the appropriate punishment, which she stated should be no less than 12 years.
Representing the Attorney General’s Office, Tom Little QC described Smith’s behavior as sadistic and contributing to Star’s suffering.
He noted that the original sentencing judge overlooked important factors such as the delay in calling emergency services and Smith’s vulnerability.
Smith’s legal representative, Zafar Ali QC, argued that her remorse was evident, citing her emotional breakdowns during the trial, and highlighted the extensive domestic violence and physical abuse inflicted by Brockhill, who was characterised as a highly intimidating figure.
Star’s great-grandfather, David Fawcett, expressed that no sentence could undo the loss of Star, emphasizing the emotional toll and the fact that he had recently visited Smith in prison without seeing much improvement.
His partner, Anita Smith, also affected by the tragedy, had made previous reports to social services and expressed that she could never forgive Frankie Smith or face her again.
Hollie Jones, a caregiver who regularly babysat Star and made the initial report in January 2020, welcomed the increased sentence and expressed satisfaction with the outcome.
The Attorney General commended the judges’ decision, describing the case as one involving persistent cruelty, neglect, and a failure by Smith to protect her daughter, with the tragic loss of Star as a consequence.
