Baby’s mother cleared as judge says case “shaken me to my core”

CHRISTOPHER PHILLIPS has been found guilty of the most serious offences in the devastating case of seven-week-old Baby C, including multiple counts of penetration and causing grievous bodily harm with intent.

The baby’s mother, who cannot be named, has been cleared of every charge, including allegations that she failed to protect her child.

The verdicts were delivered this afternoon (Dec 9) at Swansea Crown Court following a harrowing three-week trial.

Following the verdicts, Judge Paul Thomas KC delivered an emotional statement rarely heard from the bench. He told the courtroom: “In my over forty years of experience, this has been the most distressing case I have ever had to deal with.

“This has truly shaken me to my core.”

Turning to the jury, he said: “I would like to show my admiration to you all. I appreciate the toll this may have had on your mental health. You are a testament to our jury system. Thank you for all of your great effort.”

Judge Thomas ordered a pre-sentence report and requested an updated assessment of Baby C’s current physical and psychological health following the injuries he sustained.

He also directed that a psychiatric evaluation be prepared on Phillips to determine the level of danger he poses and to assist in setting the appropriate sentence.

He warned Phillips that he is facing “an extremely long prison sentence”.

Phillips will also be required to sign the Sex Offenders Register within three days of arriving in prison.

The jury’s verdicts confirm Phillips was responsible for the catastrophic injuries inflicted on Baby C in January 2021, including a bleed on the brain, multiple fractures, severe bruising, blunt-force trauma to a testicle and anal injuries described in court as “gaping”.

Medical specialists told the court they had administered morphine to a baby so young only “a handful of times” in their careers.

A sentencing will take place on January 16.

He was taken to prison.

Additional reporting by Rieve Nesbitt-Marr

A PENSIONER accused of causing more than £18,000 worth of damage at a Ceredigion car dealership will stand trial next summer, it was confirmed at Swansea Crown Court this week (Dec 9).

Seventy-eight-year-old Matthew Edmunds, of Dinas Ceri, Cwm Cou, pleaded not guilty to criminal damage at Cawdor Cars, Newcastle Emlyn, on April 19, 2024.

He is accused alongside a 15-year-old child, who cannot be named for legal reasons. That child has already admitted the offending, the court heard.

The court heard that the child applied paint stripper to several vehicles at the dealership and later helped to dispose of the clothing seen on CCTV. The prosecution allege that Edmunds denies involvement and permitted the child to take full responsibility for the incident.

Earlier hearings were told that six vehicles were damaged, with repair costs estimated at £18,373.31.

Edmunds attended court in a wheelchair, and the court was informed that he requires kidney dialysis sessions lasting around four-and-a-half hours, three days a week. The judge said the Crown Court would ensure the trial timetable accommodates his medical needs.

The case was adjourned for trial on June 16, 2026.

As of Tuesday 9 December 2025, coastal communities in Pembrokeshire remain on high alert as Storm Bram continues to batter the region with heavy rain, strong winds, and rising seas. Residents in low-lying estuary areas and seaside villages are being urged to remain vigilant as hazardous conditions persist.

Natural Resources Wales (NRW) has issued 11 flood warnings and 59 flood alerts across the country, with rivers and coastal stretches in Carmarthenshire, Pembrokeshire, and Ceredigion at particular risk.

Flood Warnings in Force
Flood warnings, which indicate that flooding is expected and immediate action is required, are currently active at the following locations:

• ⚠️ River Towy – affecting isolated properties between Llandeilo and Abergwili
• ⚠️ River Cynin at St Clears
• ⚠️ River Cothi at Pontargothi and Pontynyswen
• ⚠️ River Loughor at Ammanford and Llandybie
• ⚠️ River Solva at Solva
• ⚠️ Tidal area at Dale, Pembrokeshire
• ⚠️ River Ritec at Tenby

These warnings reflect river levels that are already elevated or expected to rise further due to persistent rainfall and saturated ground conditions.

Flood Alerts Across West Wales
Flood alerts, indicating that flooding is possible and residents should be prepared, cover an extensive area of West Wales:

• ⚠️ Upper and Lower Teifi catchments
• ⚠️ Mid Ceredigion rivers
• ⚠️ Lower and Upper Towy catchments
• ⚠️ Rivers Bran and Gwydderig
• ⚠️ Rivers Taf and Cynin
• ⚠️ Eastern and Western Cleddau
• ⚠️ South, North, and West Pembrokeshire
• ⚠️ Carmarthenshire coast
• ⚠️ Pembrokeshire coast
• ⚠️ Ceredigion coast between Clarach and Cardigan

The combination of strong winds and high tides increases the likelihood of coastal flooding along exposed shorelines, while inland communities face rising river levels.

Advice for Residents and Travellers

• 🛑 Residents: Move valuables to higher ground, check drains, and ensure emergency supplies are accessible.
• 🛑 Drivers: Avoid flooded roads and monitor Traffic Wales for closures.
• 🛑 Coastal areas: Keep away from sea fronts and estuaries, where waves and debris can pose serious hazards.

NRW recommends signing up for free flood warnings and using the 24-hour Floodline service on 0345 988 1188 for the latest updates.

While no severe flood warnings, which indicate danger to life, are currently in force, the situation remains fluid. Communities across Carmarthenshire, Pembrokeshire, and Ceredigion are advised to remain alert and prepare for possible disruption to travel, power, and daily routines.

Storm Bram is expected to continue bringing prolonged rainfall, with West Wales particularly vulnerable due to its river catchments and exposed coastline. Vigilance and adherence to official guidance remain essential in the coming days.