A man and a woman have been jailed for “inflicting horrific abuse” on a Carlisle toddler. 

In August 2022, police were made aware of concerns from medical staff regarding the nature of the injuries which a young child had suffered.

The child was taken to the Cumberland Infirmary before being transferred to the Royal Victoria Infirmary due to the severity of his condition.

Cumbria Police commended an investigation immediately and, following initial enquiries, both David Biggart, 30, and Ashleigh Brown, 31, were arrested on suspicion of child neglect.

When questioned in police interviews, both attempted to suggest the injuries suffered were self-inflicted.

Medical examination found the child suffered trauma to his head and body, with him covered in bruises.

On Monday, April 7, Biggart and Ashleigh were sentenced to for almost 12 years collectively at Carlisle Crown Court after they caused or allowed a child to suffer serious physical harm.

Biggart, 30, was jailed for nine years and four months, whilst 31-year-old Brown was handed a custodial sentence of 31 months.

Detective Constable Lisa Atkinson, Carlisle & Wigton CID, said: “I am pleased that these two individuals have been removed from society and are now in prison.

“The injuries which this defenceless child suffered were sickening.

“Despicably, when initially questioned by detectives, both attempted to suggest that the injuries were self-inflicted.

“It is the job of the police to investigate such cases and bring offenders to justice. However, such cases do leave a lasting impact on those who investigate them.

“I hope that this child can now move on with his life, now that he is safe from those who inflicted such horrific abuse.”