Man tried to drown four-week-old baby and threatened to kill mum

Warning: This article contains distressing details that some readers may find disturbing

A man who tried to drown a baby during a campaign of violence that also involved the child’s mother has been jailed.

Jay Dixon physically abused the four-week-old boy, which involved him trying to drown the baby in a bowl of water, throwing him so high that his head hit the ceiling and pushing hard on his chest in an attempt to make him stop crying.

The 22-year-old from Dundee also subjected the child’s mother to violent and coercive behaviour, threatening to kill her and the baby.

A nurse who noticed extensive bruising on the child triggered an investigation, which exposed Dixon’s behaviour.

At the High Court in Stirling, Dixon also admitted assaulting, controlling and abusing another woman during the course of a short relationship.

He was given an extended sentence of ten years and three months, with six years and three months in custody after pleading guilty to four charges earlier this month.

Non-harassment orders, banning Dixon from contacting or attempting to contact the victims, were also granted.

Moira Orr, who leads on major crime for the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS), said society was safer through Dixon’s incarceration.

She said: “Jay Dixon’s behaviour shocks every one of us. He is a danger to women and children.

“A defenceless baby suffered terribly at his hands. Two women endured violence and coercion, which has damaged their lives.

“I commend the victims in this case for the courage it took to come forward and report his crimes. They have allowed COPFS prosecutors to ensure Dixon faced justice.

“To other victims of abuse or violence, or anyone who has witnessed such crime, please report it. We all deserve to live in safety.”