Bradley Thomas, 23, has been sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 14 years for the murder of his three-month-old son, Emmerson-Oak Thomas. The infant died at Newcastle's Royal Victoria Infirmary (RVI) after suffering catastrophic injuries caused by violent shaking at the family home in Redcar.
Fatal Injuries and Delayed Emergency Response
On the early hours of October 5 last year, Thomas shook Emmerson with such force that he inflicted severe and irreversible brain injuries. Despite the baby having difficulty breathing and displaying unusual arm movements, Thomas waited 30 minutes after waking his partner before calling 999. Emmerson was initially taken to James Cook University Hospital and later transferred to the RVI, where he died on October 8, aged three months and 16 days.
During the two-week trial at Teesside Crown Court, Thomas was found guilty of murder on June 17. Sentencing him, Mr Justice Sheldon KC described Emmerson as “a baby with a lovely smile, who had already brought much joy to the family, and had his whole life ahead of him.” The judge noted that Emmerson was a healthy baby progressing through normal milestones, but Thomas's actions denied him that future.
Motivation and Deception
The court heard that Thomas, who was sleep-deprived, became frustrated when his son would not settle during the night. He had an agreement with his partner to handle night feeds while she cared for Emmerson during the day. Mr Justice Sheldon stated that Thomas “shook Emmerson with so much force that he caused fatal injuries.” Although Thomas regretted the injuries, he repeatedly failed to disclose the truth to medical professionals trying to save his son's life.
In a second police interview, Thomas falsely claimed that Emmerson had fallen from his knee onto the floor after Thomas fell asleep on the sofa. He denied shaking his son, but medical evidence proved otherwise. The judge emphasized that Thomas's actions were deliberate and violent.
Justice for Emmerson-Oak
Senior Investigating Officer T/Detective Superintendent Deb Fenny said: “This has been an incredibly distressing and emotive investigation involving the tragic death of a three-month-old baby who should have had his whole life ahead of him. Throughout this investigation, my team remained absolutely focused on securing justice for Emerson-Oak.”
She added: “Nothing can undo the devastating loss suffered by Emerson-Oak’s family, nor can any sentence bring him back. However, today’s outcome ensures that Bradley Thomas has been held responsible for his actions. Thankfully the jury saw through the false account he repeatedly sought to present.”
Fenny praised the efforts of first responders, paramedics, detectives, forensic specialists, and the Crown Prosecution Service. “The professionalism, compassion and unwavering commitment shown throughout this investigation have been exemplary. All those involved should be proud of the part they played in delivering justice for Emerson-Oak, they are a credit to Cleveland Police,” she said.
Thomas, of Grasmere Road in Redcar, will serve a life sentence with a minimum of 14 years before being considered for parole.
