KEVIN FORD AND REBECCA BATES FROM HYDE SENTENCED FOR BABY ABUSE AND NEGLECT IN TAMESIDE

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Hyde, two individuals have been held accountable for the severe abuse and neglect of a young child over a span of three months. Kevin Ford, aged 23, and Rebecca Bates, aged 22, were both brought before Manchester Minshull Street Crown Court to face charges related to their treatment of a baby boy.

Kevin Ford pleaded guilty to a charge under section 20 of the Offences Against the Person Act, specifically for assault. His plea was accepted by the court, and he was subsequently sentenced to a term of two years in prison. The court heard that Ford's actions had caused significant harm to the child, with injuries that indicated repeated physical abuse.

Rebecca Bates, also from Hyde, admitted to charges of child cruelty. Her guilty plea led to her being sentenced to six months behind bars. The court's decision reflects the gravity of the neglect and abuse inflicted upon the young victim.

The case came to light in February when police were called to Tameside General Hospital following reports of a baby boy with injuries. Medical professionals at the hospital discovered that the child had sustained multiple fractures to his arms and legs, injuries that raised immediate concern and prompted further investigation.

Investigations revealed that the abuse and neglect had occurred over a period from November 2, 2010, to January 28, 2011. The police worked diligently to piece together the timeline and circumstances surrounding the child's injuries, which pointed to ongoing mistreatment rather than isolated incidents.

Both Ford and Bates were arrested in April of the previous year as part of the police inquiry. Detective Constable Kathryn Mackenzie of the Public Protection Division commented on the case, stating, “On each occasion that the defendants were asked about the various injuries, they came up with excuses. Sometimes they would say that he was injured when playing with toys, or that he had an allergic reaction. However, our investigation concluded that this boy had been subjected to routine abuse and neglect.”

She further emphasized the importance of the collaborative effort, saying, “We have worked closely with our partner agencies and thankfully this boy is now safe from harm.” The case highlights the ongoing issues of child abuse and the importance of vigilance in protecting vulnerable children within communities like Hyde and the wider Tameside area.