Stepfather Found Guilty of Murdering Infant Stepson in Swansea
Thomas Morgan, a 29-year-old man from Gorseinon in Swansea, has been convicted of murdering his five-month-old stepson, Jensen-Lee Dougal, in a violent attack driven by rage. The tragic incident occurred at the family home in Swansea, where Morgan was left alone with the infant while the baby's mother, Jordan Dougal, was at work.
Catastrophic Injuries Led to Baby's Death
Swansea Crown Court heard harrowing details of the case, revealing that Jensen-Lee Dougal suffered catastrophic brain damage, multiple fractures, and extensive retinal bleeding in both eyes. These devastating injuries were inflicted on March 30, 2024, and the baby was rushed to hospital after Morgan claimed the infant was choking and had stopped breathing.
Despite medical intervention, Jensen-Lee was taken off life support the following day and died in his mother's arms. The prosecution described the brain injury as "devastating," highlighting the severity of the assault that led to the infant's untimely death.
Prosecution Details the Fatal Incident
Caroline Rees KC, prosecuting, stated that Morgan had argued with his former partner, Georgia Griffiths, earlier on the day of the assault. This confrontation left Morgan with a "short fuse" and elevated temper, ultimately causing him to "snap."
"The defendant, his temper raised and his fuse short after an argument with Georgia Griffiths, must have snapped and shaken Jensen-Lee with such violence that he caused devastating injuries," Ms Rees told the court. She emphasized that Morgan had "seriously abused the trust placed in him" by assaulting the helpless baby.
Morgan's Defence and Trial Outcome
Throughout the trial, Morgan denied inflicting serious injuries on Jensen-Lee, instead claiming he had attempted to save the baby after he fell ill while in his care. He maintained that the infant began choking, prompting his efforts to resuscitate him.
However, the jury did not accept this explanation and found Morgan guilty of murder on Tuesday. The court heard that Morgan was in a relationship with Jensen-Lee's mother and was treated as the baby's stepfather, adding a layer of betrayal to the horrific crime.
Sentencing and Aftermath
Thomas Morgan is now awaiting sentencing, which will be determined at a later date. The conviction brings a measure of justice for Jensen-Lee Dougal, whose life was cut tragically short at just five months old.
This case has shocked the Swansea community, underscoring the grave consequences of uncontrolled rage and the vulnerability of young children. The detailed evidence presented in court painted a clear picture of the violent episode that led to an innocent baby's death, leaving a family shattered and a community in mourning.
