Mr Johnson shook and punched little Erin in the savage attack (Image: PA)
Martin Johnson, 20, violently turned on Erin Tomkins, inflicting multiple injuries on the toddler, when he was supposed to be looking after her at her mother’s home in Gleadless, Sheffield. He was found guilty of killing little Erin at Sheffield Crown Court and the judged jailed him for life with a minimum of 19 years. The court heard how Mr Johnson had lied to police saying that Erin, who was due to celebrate her second birthday weeks later, had collapsed in front of him as they played at his girlfriend Kira Tomkin’s home on May 21.
Little Erin was subjected to repeated attacks by Mr Johnson during her short life (Image: PA)
Mr Johnson phoned 999 and Erin was rushed to Sheffield Children’s Hospital.
Staff found bruises on the toddler’s face and body, bruising and bleeding to the surface of her brain, which was also swollen, and bleeding to both eyes.
Detective Chief Inspector Steve Whittaker described the “savage attack” as one of the worst crimes he had dealt with in his 32-year long career.
