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Mum of baby McKenzie Ellis murdered in Broadstairs speaks out as killer Lee Vernon starts life sentence

The heartbroken mother of a six-week-old baby who died after suffering a catalogue of injuries at the hands of his father has spoken of her hatred towards him.

McKenzie Ellis died three days after being rushed from his home in Broadstairs to hospital in July last year - he'd suffered 28 bone fractures and a bleed to the brain.

Katrina Ellis speaking exclusively to KMTV

McKenzie was taken to King's College Hospital from the QEQM in Margate on July 23, 2018 after Lee Vernon called emergency services to report his son was unconscious and he had no idea why.

When asked if the child had hurt himself in any way he replied "no, not really".

Medical crews found McKenzie had suffered trauma to his head and he died at a specialist trauma unit.

In police interview Vernon said his son had accidentally fallen from his grip, causing the child to hit himself on the arm of a sofa before falling to the floor.

Lee Vernon murdered his baby son
Lee Vernon murdered his baby son

The 21-year-old was found guilty of murder and two counts of grievous bodily harm, following a trial at Maidstone Crown Court last month.

He was sentenced at the same court today and will serve a minimum of 16 years behind bars.

Reacting to the jury's verdict, an NSPCC spokesman said: "His was a horrific and senseless murder of an innocent baby at the hands of a man who should have been nurturing and protecting him.

"We all have a responsibility to look out for the welfare of children and it is vital that anyone concerned about a child speaks out.

"You can contact the NSPCC Helpline on 0808 800 5000 or email help@nspcc.org.uk"

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