A father has been convicted of murdering his four-week-old baby by shaking him to death after lying to the police about the circumstances. Tony Bartlett, aged 39, caused severe injuries to his son while alone at home in Chard, Somerset. The baby, named Atticus, was described as “fit and healthy” before Bartlett inflicted the fatal injuries. Bartlett, a postman from Axminster in Devon, has been found guilty of murder and is awaiting sentencing at Bristol Crown Court.
During the trial, it was revealed that Bartlett initially misled the police about what happened, claiming that the baby had suddenly become unwell. However, evidence presented in court proved that Bartlett was responsible for the catastrophic injuries that led to Atticus’s death. Bodycam footage captured Bartlett telling officers that he and his wife had been out for a comedy show before returning home. He claimed that the baby appeared fine until he suddenly became lifeless and made strange sounds before passing away.
Despite efforts by medical professionals, Atticus could not be saved and passed away a week later at Bristol Royal Infirmary. Speaking after the verdict, Detective Superintendent Lorett Spierenburg expressed condolences to Atticus’s family, acknowledging the profound impact of their loss. She emphasized that Bartlett was solely responsible for the baby’s death, despite his denials.
The sentencing for Bartlett is scheduled for Friday, July 24th at Bristol Crown Court.