Baby Alfie killer had 'momentary loss of control'

A court heard today that Michael Pearce, who was found guilty of the manslaughter of a six week-old baby Alfie Rhys Sullock, had "a momentary loss of self-control" and was "a man of previous impeccable character."

The magistrate's son, of Nelson, Caerphilly was sentenced today to nine years in jail.

A jury cleared Pearce of murder but convicted him of manslaughter.

Today his defence team told a packed courtroom that Pearce had a "momentary loss of control".

Defending QC Alexander Greenwood made submissions on behalf of Pearce - saying the injuries Alfie sustained were "unintentional and unintended. This was a momentary loss of self-control on the part of a man of previous impeccable character."

Judge Mr Justice Baker said the exact cause of Alfie's injuries would "probably remain unknown", it was likely they had been caused by up to "10 blows" from at least one object.

As the nine-year sentence was handed down, a cry of "Disgraceful" was heard from the public gallery.

Pearce could be released from prison on licence after serving half of his sentence.