Former Arsenal and Tottenham player, Kiernan Hughes-Mason, has been found guilty of child cruelty and causing grievous bodily harm to a two-year-old girl. The 32-year-old ex-footballer, who also played professionally for Millwall, inflicted irreversible brain injuries on his ex-girlfriend’s daughter, leaving her in need of round-the-clock medical care.
The severity of the girl’s injuries was likened to those sustained in a high-speed car accident or a fall from several floors. Medical staff who attended to her in Westcliff-on-Sea (Essex) on January 31, 2020, discovered a shocking total of 17 different injuries on her legs, face, and chest. According to medical reports, these wounds were the result of at least six months of prolonged abuse.
Disturbing text messages sent by Hughes-Mason to a friend were uncovered by the police. In these messages, he expressed frustration with the girl, stating that she was getting on his nerves and that he intended to physically harm her. The former English Football League Championship (EFL) player, who also had stints at Grimsby, Welling, Kettering, Maidstone, Leatherhead, Grays, and Barking, is awaiting sentencing on September 10.
Following the revelation of his legal troubles, Enfield Borough FC promptly dismissed Hughes-Mason from his coaching position. The club distanced itself from the ex-footballer and took swift action in response to the serious nature of the charges against him.
The shocking case has sent shockwaves through the football community, with many expressing their outrage and calling for justice to be served. The welfare of children is of utmost importance, and incidents like these highlight the need for continued vigilance and protection for vulnerable individuals.
As the football world awaits the sentencing of Hughes-Mason, it is hoped that the legal system will deliver a just and appropriate punishment for the harm he has caused. The young girl and her family deserve justice, and it is essential that society sends a clear message that such acts of cruelty will not be tolerated.
