HORRIFIC CRIME: GARY BENNISON OF HORNCHURCH SENTENCED FOR BRUTAL ATTACKS ON HIS INFANT SON

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Hornchurch, Essex, Gary Bennison, aged 24, was convicted of inflicting severe injuries on his own young son, leading to a lengthy prison sentence. The court heard that Bennison’s violent actions resulted in life-altering trauma for the innocent child, who was only four months old at the time of the attacks.

According to court records, Bennison first attacked his infant son when the child was just three weeks old, in February of the previous year. During this assault, he inflicted a fractured spine and broke three ribs, injuries that were only discovered after the child was taken to hospital for treatment. Medical examinations revealed that the injuries were caused by significant force, likely involving heavy blows to the back and chest, possibly from slamming the baby onto his bottom or the ground.

Three months later, on May 19, Bennison committed another violent act against his son. This time, he shook the infant in a fit of rage, causing multiple brain hemorrhages and cerebral swelling. The severity of the brain injuries was such that the child exhibited abnormalities in the frontal lobe and experienced developmental delays, with doctors noting that his progress had been significantly hindered by the trauma.

Prosecutor Mark Horsley explained that the injuries sustained by the child were consistent with heavy blows and violent shaking, and that the fractures to the ribs and spine indicated considerable force had been used. The medical team at the hospital confirmed that the injuries were recent, occurring approximately three to four weeks before the May incident, when the child was only about three months old.

Despite overwhelming medical evidence linking Bennison to the injuries, he initially denied responsibility. Instead, he falsely claimed that his older son, who was only two years old at the time, was responsible for causing the injuries to the younger sibling. Bennison’s persistent denial and attempt to shift blame to his other child were heavily criticized by the court.

During the trial at Snaresbrook Crown Court in north-east London, Bennison was found guilty of two separate attacks on his son. Judge Joanna Korner QC delivered a stern sentence of eight years in prison, emphasizing the gravity of the crimes and the breach of trust involved. She stated that the injuries inflicted on the child were the result of repeated cycles of violent shaking and that Bennison’s denial despite clear evidence was deeply troubling.

Judge Korner highlighted the disturbing escalation of violence, noting that Bennison’s level of aggression appeared to increase over time. She also expressed concern about Bennison’s current relationship with another woman who has young children, warning that there is a high risk of reoffending if he continues to engage in such relationships.

In her sentencing remarks, the judge underscored the profound breach of parental trust, stating, “There can be no greater position of responsibility than that of a parent caring for a young child, and you, Mr. Bennison, have egregiously abused that trust.” She pointed out that Bennison, being an intelligent young man, could not have been unaware of the harm he was causing, especially since the child would have cried out in pain during each assault.

Furthermore, Bennison had denied charges of grievous bodily harm related to the first attack and grievous bodily harm with intent for the second, but the evidence presented in court proved his guilt beyond reasonable doubt. The case has left the Hornchurch community deeply disturbed, raising questions about child safety and the importance of vigilant parenting.