In a heart-wrenching ruling, a 29-year-old man has been found guilty of murdering his partner’s five-month-old son, Jensen-Lee Dougal. The infant, described as a cherished and joyful child, succumbed to catastrophic brain injuries on 31 March 2024. The verdict was delivered at Swansea Crown Court, where the case revealed a devastating account of violence against a vulnerable baby.
Details of the Case
Thomas Morgan, residing in Gorseinon, was also convicted of causing grievous bodily harm with intent, although he was acquitted of two other similar charges. The jury’s unanimous decision brought an emotional response from Jensen-Lee’s family, who were present in the courtroom. Morgan displayed no visible reaction as the verdict was announced, while the atmosphere was charged with grief from the public gallery.
Throughout the four-week trial, jurors were presented with harrowing evidence detailing the nature of Jensen-Lee’s injuries, which forensic experts attributed to violent shaking. On the day of the incident, Morgan was tasked with caring for the infant while his partner, Jordan Dougal, was at work. Tensions reportedly escalated following an abusive exchange with an ex-girlfriend, leading to Morgan’s explosive anger.
Distressing Evidence Presented
The court was shown disturbing CCTV footage capturing the moment Morgan emerged from their home carrying a “limp and lifeless” Jensen-Lee. Witnesses had attempted to assist Morgan, who had initially sought help from neighbours. The prosecution argued that Morgan had shaken the baby while in a fit of rage, resulting in horrific injuries.
Morgan recounted a different narrative, claiming he had left Jensen-Lee briefly to clean after the family dog, returning to find the infant in distress. He described trying to assist Jensen-Lee, who he believed was choking, by shaking him gently. However, medical experts contradicted this account, stating that the severity of the injuries was consistent only with violent shaking rather than any benign effort to help.
Expert Testimony and Medical Findings
The court heard from Dr. Shafqat Bukhari of the Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital, who explained that Jensen-Lee had suffered severe brain trauma and spinal cord injuries, despite showing no external signs of harm. The doctor noted that the force required to inflict such damage would have been evident to anyone witnessing it. Jensen-Lee, tragically, was declared dead on 31 March 2024, after life support was withdrawn while he lay in his mother’s arms.
Jordan Dougal, devastated by the loss, shared that her son had been a vibrant and happy baby, expressing her heartbreak at the circumstances of his death. Judge Justice Stacey described the case as one of the saddest she had encountered, commending the jury for their service during a profoundly distressing trial.
Sentencing and Community Reactions
Morgan is scheduled for sentencing on 25 February. The case has stirred significant outrage and sorrow within the community, highlighting the pervasive issue of child abuse and the need for vigilance in protecting vulnerable individuals.
Why it Matters
This tragic case serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of young children and the devastating consequences of domestic violence. It underscores the importance of community awareness and intervention, as well as the critical need for robust support systems for families. The loss of Jensen-Lee Dougal not only affects his immediate family but resonates throughout society, raising questions about safeguarding measures and the responsibilities we hold towards the most defenseless among us.
