MARTIN JOHNSON'S BRUTAL MURDER OF SHEFFIELD TODDLER ERIN TOMKINS

In a tragic and disturbing case that has shocked the community of Sheffield, Martin Johnson, aged 20, has been convicted of the heinous murder of his young stepdaughter, Erin Tomkins. The incident took place at their family home in the Gleadless area of Sheffield, where Johnson carried out a savage assault that ultimately led to Erin's death.

According to court records and medical examinations, Erin, who was just shy of her second birthday, suffered multiple severe injuries. The post-mortem report detailed extensive trauma, including injuries to her head and face, as well as broken limbs and four fractures to her spine that had occurred in the weeks prior to her death. These injuries painted a grim picture of ongoing abuse and violence inflicted upon the young girl.

Johnson, a former chef by profession, initially claimed to police that he had been playing with Erin at their Sheffield residence when she suddenly collapsed in front of him. However, this account was quickly contradicted by the medical evidence and the circumstances surrounding her injuries.

On Monday, May 21, 2018, Johnson contacted emergency services, calling 999 from Miss Tomkins’s home on Leighton Road. When paramedics arrived at the scene, they found Erin in a critical condition. She was rushed to Sheffield Children’s Hospital, where medical staff discovered numerous injuries. These included bruises on her face and body, bleeding and swelling of her brain, and bleeding in both her eyes. The hospital staff also identified ten separate injuries to her head and face, indicating a pattern of sustained and severe abuse.

Further investigations revealed that Erin had suffered a fractured right arm and spinal fractures that were several weeks old, suggesting a prolonged period of physical abuse. The evidence was overwhelming, and after less than two hours of deliberation, the jury at Sheffield Crown Court found Johnson guilty of murder. In addition to the murder conviction, he was also convicted of two counts of causing grievous bodily harm with intent.

Judge’s sentencing mandated that Johnson serve a minimum of 19 years in prison before being eligible for parole. The court’s decision reflects the gravity of his crimes and the devastating impact on Erin’s family.

During the trial, Erin’s mother, Kira Tomkins, delivered an emotional victim impact statement. She expressed her heartbreak and anger, stating, “Erin should not have been in a position where she was scared to be in her own home. She should have had the opportunity to grow up and live her life, but she never even got to start nursery. When I close my eyes, I see Erin, and that just reminds me of her innocence.” Her words underscored the profound loss and trauma inflicted by Johnson’s actions, leaving a lasting scar on her family and the Sheffield community.