NICOLA GALLAGHER AND CHRISTOPHER BOWDEN SENT TO JAIL OVER HORRIFIC CHILD ABUSE IN ACCRINGTON AND RAWTENSTALL

In a disturbing case that has shocked the communities of Accrington and Rawtenstall, a man and a woman have been sentenced to prison following the severe abuse of a young child, resulting in multiple injuries and long-lasting trauma.

Burnley Crown Court heard harrowing details of the child's condition, revealing that the toddler had sustained a total of 16 injuries. These included three significant fractures to his arms, damage to his ears, toes, and genitals, a tear inside his mouth, and an extensive array of bruises. The injuries were so severe that a consultant paediatrician who examined the boy in January of the previous year described them as horrific.

The court was informed that the child's injuries caused him considerable pain, especially when he moved his arms. It was explained that he was unable to properly move his elbow, and each time he did, he would cry out in agony. The fractures in his bones had displaced, causing the bones to grate against each other, which contributed to his suffering. The extent of the injuries indicated a prolonged period of abuse, with the child enduring significant physical pain over time.

Judge Barbara Watson sentenced Nicola Gallagher, aged 23, of Hardman Avenue in Rawtenstall, and Christopher Bowden, aged 20, of Cheltenham Avenue in Accrington, to 18 months in custody each. Neither of the defendants accepted responsibility for the injuries inflicted upon the child. The judge emphasized the seriousness of the case, describing it as a clear example of child abuse that demanded a strong judicial response due to public concern for the safety and well-being of vulnerable children.

Judge Watson highlighted that, despite the severity of the injuries, the child had fortunately recovered well physically, and surgical intervention was no longer necessary to reset his elbow. However, she warned that the psychological scars from the abuse would likely persist for a long time. The judge remarked, “He will suffer the consequences of what you did for a very long time. I don’t talk of the physical consequences but the psychological ones.”

Both Gallagher and Bowden had previously admitted to child cruelty charges. The prosecution, led by Charles Brown, recounted that in November 1999, bruises were observed on the child. Gallagher initially claimed that the bruises resulted from the child falling and banging into objects. However, further examination revealed that the child's arm was sore and difficult to move, and he had other injuries, including a fading black eye and cuts. By January 2000, the child's condition had worsened, with dried blood on his lips, bruises on his ear and face, and the injured arm.

The child's distress was evident during medical examinations, with the paediatrician noting that he was extremely frightened and became upset when his socks were removed. Gallagher, who had no prior convictions, was defended by Philip Holden, who stated that she had been subjected to violence herself, including an attempt by Bowden to strangle her. Holden argued that Gallagher was not responsible for the injuries and was unaware of the fractures, though she knew the child had bruises.

This case underscores the grave consequences of child abuse and the importance of safeguarding vulnerable children in communities like Accrington and Rawtenstall. The court’s decision reflects a firm stance against such heinous acts, aiming to protect children and ensure justice is served.