ROBIN BEARMAN FROM ILFRACOMBE SENTENCED FOR BRUTAL ATTACK ON BABY AT KITCHEN COUNTER

In November 2019, a distressing case emerged from Ilfracombe, Devon, involving a father who inflicted severe harm on his three-week-old daughter during a moment of intense frustration. Robin Bearman, a resident of Ilfracombe, was found guilty of causing grievous bodily harm after a harrowing incident in which he forcefully slammed his infant's head against a kitchen counter twice.

According to court proceedings, Bearman lost his temper during an early feeding session, which led to a violent outburst. In a fit of rage, he struck his young daughter’s head against the counter on two separate occasions, causing significant injuries. The severity of the injuries was evident: the baby sustained two skull fractures and a serious bleed on the brain. Initially, medical professionals believed she had suffered a serious brain injury, and her condition was considered critical.

As a consequence of the assault, the child's skull was misshapen, and she now faces ongoing challenges with speech and hearing. The physical trauma inflicted upon her has had lasting effects, highlighting the gravity of the incident.

In the aftermath, Bearman attempted to conceal his involvement by fabricating a series of false stories in an effort to explain the injuries. His deception led to his wife becoming a suspect, and as a result, her children were temporarily taken into care. It was only after a lengthy period of suspicion that Bearman finally admitted to his actions in January 2018, nearly a year after the incident.

Initially, Bearman, aged 28 at the time, faced charges of causing grievous bodily harm with intent. However, during a trial held last month at Exeter Crown Court, he was acquitted of the more serious charge. Instead, he pleaded guilty to a lesser offence of inflicting grievous bodily harm.

Judge Timothy Rose addressed Bearman directly during sentencing, stating, “You were exceptionally violent and were later to describe shaking her forcefully twice and bringing her head down with force against a kitchen counter on two occasions.” The judge emphasized the brutality of the attack and the lasting impact on the young girl, underscoring the seriousness of the crime and the need for appropriate punishment.