NSPCC: Statement on Finley Thomas child cruelty sentencing

A 20 month sentence has been handed down to Chloe Thomas, who had previously pleaded guilty to child cruelty following the death of her son, 17 month old Finley Thomas.

The 25 year old, from Tonypandy, was sentenced at Cardiff Crown Court.

Last month 28 year old Sean Buckley was convicted of Finley’s murder and jailed for a minimum of 17 years.

Head of NSPCC Cymru / Wales, Des Mannion, said:

“Chloe Thomas failed to protect her own son from the horrific abuse he suffered at the hands of Sean Buckley – abuse which ultimately led to Finley’s brutal murder.

“Everyone who followed this case would have been deeply affected by hearing the evidence of brutality that blighted Finley’s life and it is right that his mother has been jailed for her part in this abuse.

“Cases where a young child is murdered in these horrific circumstances are mercifully rare in Wales but we know that abuse and neglect take place every day in too many homes across the country; each damaging a child’s future. We all have a duty to look out for their welfare.

“The detailed review which we hope will soon follow this case should provide much-needed answers to this tragedy and help prevent children like Finley suffering in this way again.”

Members of the public can report any concerns they have about a child to the NSPCC Helpline on 0808 800 5000.