Mother Jailed for 14 Years After Leaving Baby with Permanent Brain Damage
A mother has been locked up for 14 years after brutally injuring her seven-week-old daughter, causing irreversible brain damage.
Sarah Ngaba’s Brutal Assault
Sarah Ngaba, 27, formerly of Brookside, Telford, was sentenced at Stafford Crown Court for causing grievous bodily harm with intent. The offence left her infant daughter with life-threatening and life-limiting injuries. Ngaba was found guilty back in November 2020.
On 13 November 2019, Ngaba dragged her floppy, unresponsive baby to hospital. Doctors immediately spotted severe injuries consistent with a vicious assault.
Denial and Deceit
Initially, Ngaba claimed she had no idea why her baby was unconscious. But just before her police interview, she admitted to hitting the child – though she insisted she never meant to cause harm.
However, the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) ripped apart her defence. The baby’s horrific injuries proved Ngaba deliberately inflicted serious harm.
“By her actions, Sarah Ngaba has permanently destroyed the quality of her baby’s life. Her baby was left with severe disability and will be entirely dependent on others for the rest of her life,” said Warren Stanier from the CPS.
Despicable Delay and Lies
- Ngaba waited over two hours before taking her child to hospital, despite knowing the baby was in urgent need of help.
- She repeatedly lied during the investigation, shifting blame onto the baby’s father, who was not even present.
The court has handed her a lengthy prison sentence. Instead of protecting her child, Ngaba chose to inflict unimaginable suffering.
Stanier added, “I hope this sentencing sends a message to parents who abuse their children that the CPS will prosecute such cases vigorously.”
