A COUPLE FROM Co Antrim have been jailed for inflicting what the PSNI has described as “sickening abusive injuries” on a four-week-old baby.

Amanda Fulton (36) and Christopher Fulton (35) from Mosside near Ballymoney in Co Antrim were today sentenced today for causing or allowing a child to suffer serious physical harm, child cruelty and grievous bodily harm with intent.

They were jailed at Newry Crown Court.

Christopher Fulton received a 22-year sentence, while Amanda Fulton received a four year custodial sentence, with two years on license.

Detective Chief Inspector Claire Gilbert, said that the PSNI were contacted by social services on 7 November 2019 about a very young child with suspected non-accidental injuries.

The four-week-old baby was referred to as “P” in court.

Gilbert said that further scans and hospital tests revealed “sickening abusive injuries” that were believed at the time to be “potentially life threatening”.

“The very young child in question suffered a fractured skull and bleed on the brain, significant bruising, a laceration to the liver, as well as suspected fractured ribs and other fractures,” said Gilbert.

The assault left baby P blind and brain damaged.

“It is horrifying to think there are children suffering in this way behind closed doors at the hands of those who are supposed to love and protect them,” said Gilbert.

She said that the PSNI works around the clock with emergency service partners and social services to “try to put a stop to child abuse and bring perpetrators before the courts as we have done today”.

“Let today serve as a warning to those hurting children,” said Gilbert.

“You can only go undetected for so long, we are vigilant and we will take action.”

She urged anyone who believes a child to be in danger in any way to make contact with the police.

“Report,” said Gilbert, “don’t question your gut feeling.

“If something doesn’t feel right, you won’t be wasting our time by picking up the phone. You could save a child’s life.”