RYAN LESLIE SENTENCED TO 17 YEARS FOR MURDER OF BABY SON IN NEWTOWNABBEY

In a tragic case that has shocked the community of Newtownabbey, County Antrim, Ryan Leslie, aged 26, has been sentenced to serve a minimum of 17 years in prison for the brutal murder of his infant son, Cameron Jay Leslie. The devastating incident unfolded in September 2008, when the young child, only 14 weeks old, succumbed to injuries inflicted by his father, leading to his death in hospital after suffering severe trauma to multiple parts of his fragile body.

Leslie was found guilty in February of the same year of both murdering his son and causing him grievous bodily harm. The court heard that Cameron’s death was caused by brain swelling resulting from a severe blow to the back of his head, inflicted by Leslie. The injury was so severe that it cut off oxygen to the baby’s brain stem, ultimately leading to his death. During the trial, evidence was presented that painted a disturbing picture of ongoing abuse, including numerous bruises on Cameron’s arms, legs, torso, throat, and chin, as well as 14 rib fractures. Deputy State Pathologist for Northern Ireland, Dr. Peter Ingram, testified that these injuries, which were consistent with child abuse, had been inflicted days before the fatal assault and did not directly contribute to Cameron’s death.

It was revealed that Cameron had been in his father’s care for two days before being rushed to hospital on September 4, 2008. Despite the efforts of medical professionals, the baby died two days later. Leslie’s relationship with Cameron’s mother, Sheree Black, had ended in August, but she permitted him to have overnight visits with their son at his flat. The court heard that Leslie’s relationship with Ms. Black was marred by violence, with evidence indicating he had physically assaulted her on seven occasions, including kicking her while she was pregnant, throwing a remote control at her, striking her with a bruise, and pulling her by the hair.

During sentencing, High Court Judge Mr. Justice Stephens criticized Leslie’s lack of remorse and insight into his actions. The judge described Leslie as a violent individual with poor temper control, who had sought help from a general practitioner and psychiatrist but failed to attend anger management courses. The judge also noted Leslie’s dishonesty, describing him as a “dishonest and deeply manipulative individual,” especially in his attempts to deceive police during the investigation.

Furthermore, the court was informed that Leslie’s current partner was five to six weeks pregnant, raising concerns about ongoing risk and potential future harm. The judge emphasized that Leslie still posed a danger to the public and was likely to reoffend. After the sentencing, Cameron’s mother, Sheree Black, expressed her anguish, stating, “Life should be life at the end of the day… Ryan shouldn’t ever be allowed out for what he’s done.” She added, “But I am satisfied with what the judge said and he did sum him up to exactly what he is. He’s a beast.”