Ex-Arsenal Star Jailed for 14 Years After Inflicting Unimaginable Horrors on Toddler
Kiernan Hughes-Mason, a former youth player for Arsenal and Tottenham, has been sentenced to 14 years in prison for his heinous crimes against a two-year-old girl. The 32-year-old ex-footballer was convicted of causing grievous bodily harm with intent and child cruelty, after subjecting the toddler to 17 different injuries over a three-month period.
Hughes-Mason’s excuse for the abuse was that the toddler had fallen on her dollhouse, but medical professionals described the injuries as being akin to a "high-speed road traffic accident" or "fall from a substantial height of several storeys". The toddler was placed in a coma for 14 days and suffered life-changing brain injuries that require round-the-clock care.
The girl’s mother has spoken out about the devastating impact of the abuse, saying that her daughter is "no longer the little girl who would dance around the living room". The toddler is now unable to walk, sit, or stand by herself, and is in constant pain. She is also epileptic and struggles to speak, requiring a feeding tube as she finds it difficult to eat or drink.
The abuse was discovered after Hughes-Mason joined Hashtag United in the 2016/17 season, where he made 27 appearances. The club has since issued a statement condemning Hughes-Mason’s actions, stating that they had no knowledge of the abuse until it was reported. The club has also launched an investigation into their background check procedures, which failed to uncover Hughes-Mason’s past.
Hughes-Mason was managing Eastern Counties League Division One South side Enfield Borough at the time of his conviction, and has since been sacked by the club.
As we digest the sheer brutality of Hughes-Mason’s crimes, it’s crucial that we acknowledge the vital work of organizations like Childline, who offer a free-to-call helpline for children and young people. You can start a 1-2-1 with a counsellor via their official website, or call 0800 1111 for free support.
The National Domestic Abuse Helpline is also available for those affected by abuse, and can be called on 0808 2000 247.
Follow us on all social media platforms for more updates and analysis on the world of football