JAMES MOORE AND ANNIE CODLING FROM MALTON SENTENCED FOR CHILD CRUELTY AND NEGLECT

In a case that has shocked the community of Malton, two individuals have been convicted of severe child cruelty and neglect, with both receiving substantial prison sentences. James Moore, who was found guilty of child cruelty and actual bodily harm (ABH) inflicted upon a child in his care, was sentenced to eight years behind bars. Moore, who appeared in court in 2017 and pleaded guilty at the earliest opportunity, has been described as a danger to children and was characterized by the presiding judge as a bully, a coward, and a liar.

Alongside Moore, Annie Codling, also from Malton, was handed a 45-month prison sentence after she admitted to charges of child cruelty and neglect. Like Moore, she chose to plead guilty immediately upon her court appearance, indicating a recognition of her involvement in the case.

The judge overseeing the case expressed profound shock at the extent of the injuries sustained by the child, describing them as some of the worst he had encountered in nearly three decades of judicial service. The court heard that the injuries were inflicted in a manner that demonstrated a blatant disregard for the child's well-being.

During police interviews, both Moore and Codling shifted blame onto each other for the injuries sustained by the child. Alarmingly, neither of them took the child to seek medical treatment, which could have mitigated some of the harm caused.

The case came to light after authorities were called to the residence in Malton in 2016, following an incident where Codling's child was found wandering the streets at 2 a.m. by a local taxi driver. This event prompted further investigation, revealing a pattern of neglect and abuse that ultimately led to the convictions.

Both Moore and Codling are expected to be closely monitored upon their release from prison, as authorities remain vigilant about their potential risk to children. The case has sparked concern among residents of Malton and highlights the importance of child protection efforts in the community.