The mother of Star Hobson who allowed her toddler daughter to be murdered by her lover is ‘upset’ by calls for her eight-year sentence to be reviewed.
Frankie Smith (age 20) phoned David Fawcett, her grandfather, earlier this week in protest about the sentence she received. The Attorney General had asked for a review of her “lenient” sentence.
Following a reduction in her sentence by a judge to take into account the “burden” of knowing that she played an important role in her daughter’s death at 16 months old, her sentence was reduced to eight years.
Savannah Brockhill was Smith’s girlfriend, and she was sent to prison for at least 25 years. A mandatory life sentence was also given for the murder of Smith.
Frankie Smith, 20, phoned her grandfather David Fawcett, 61, (pictured) – who is one of the two relatives who speaks to her – earlier this week to moan about her jail term after the Attorney General urged a review into the ‘lenient’ sentence
Star’s mother Frankie Smith (L), 20 was cleared of murder. However, she was found guilty in Bradford Crown Court for causing or permitting the death of her child, after three days. Savannah Brockhill (R), was unanimously convicted of Star Hobson’s murder by a jury
Innocent Star suffered from the abuse and torment of Smith and Brockhill throughout her brief lifetime.
David (61), told Sunday People: “She called me on Thursday, and she is upset that they are reviewing their sentence. Eight years doesn’t seem long enough, people say.
To be truthful, she is upset. “She’s had to lose her daughter, and that is all she can talk about.
Gillian Keegan, Health Minister suggested that Attorney General Suella Braverman send the case before the Court of Appeal to review Star’s sentence.
LBC heard Ms Keegan’s brief, which includes care, say Smith being sentenced to such a short time in jail ‘doesn’t sound like justice’.
Star’s loved ones had last night criticised the’staggeringly light’ sentence and requested that the Attorney General review the case to determine if it was within the bounds of the too lenient sentencing plan.
The spokesperson from the Attorney General’s Office confirmed that they had received the request to examine the sentences. Law officers are allowed to review the case within 28 days of the time the terms were issued.
Frank Smith, age 68, Star’s great-grandfather said that Star wished her killers would “rot in jail” and then asked Star, “Is that all Star’s life worth?” Frankie will be free in four years…. How is that justice?”
Star suffered severe bruises from Star. Police have released graphic of Star’s face. This prompted family to call social services.
According to him, Brockhill was a former bouncer and beat Brockhill. He ultimately deserves the death penalty.
Frank was among five family members or friends who whistleblowers. They raised concerns regarding Star, a 16-month old,’s treatment.
He declared: [Frankie] watched her child die. To cover up her own and Brockhills’ tracks, she lied multiple times.
“They deserve to be locked up.” It’s disgusting.’
Ms Keegan, Health Minister, said: “It’s an shocking, shocking situation – I mean it’s quite incredible. Also, poor Arthur (Labinjo Hughes). It’s unbelievable.
“Obviously, the judge and jury have made their… sentence passed recently, but you know, I suppose the Attorney General also has this power. So, I’m not sure.
She said, “Those who loved Star are equally confused and angry as they are sad about all the things that have been lost.”
They were told by her that Star had been 16 months at the time she was murdered. She was a victim of cruelty, neglect and injuries throughout her short life.
Savannah Brockhill, she murdered Savannah. Frankie Smith, Star was in danger because of your mother’s role.
Star suffered half of her body’s blood loss due to the “fatal punch” or kick, according to the judge. Her internal organs were also damaged by Star’s punishment.
She stated that the force needed to cause these injuries had to have been immense, similar to forces involved in a road accident.
Only you know exactly what caused that fatal attack.
Star was not the only victim of the violent attack that led to his death.
Star also suffered multiple rib fractures and brain injuries.
“She was treated by both you and her with at worst, indifference, but often with open cruelty.”
Mrs Justice Lambert pointed out footage that was shown several times throughout the trial showing Star, who is ‘clearly desperate for sleep’ and falling from her chair while ‘dangerously hitting the ground’.
Both defendants were filmed, she claimed.
“Those who have seen the evidence will wonder why someone would behave so badly towards a vulnerable young child, who deserves to be loved and cared for rather than neglected and abused.
“The solution to that question is simple to me.
Star was caught up in your romance’s crossfire.
Star’s short-lived life was touched by the Bradford Partnership. It includes all agencies involved in Star’s protection.
Although the partnership for safeguarding said that it will publish a review on the case next month, the group expressed deep regret at not being able to spot all of the warning signs.