Iskander Kechiche, 49, of Elkstone Close, Worcester, was sentenced to 39 months in prison at Worcester Crown Court on June 22 after pleading guilty to a section 20 assault occasioning grievous bodily harm (GBH) charge. The assault left a three-and-a-half-month-old baby severely disabled, now requiring lifelong specialist care.
The Incident and False Report
In July 2021, Kechiche was left alone with the infant. He violently shook the child, causing significant head trauma. He then called 999, claiming the baby had 'fallen from a sofa.' Medics grew suspicious when they found the infant in cardiac arrest and alerted police.
Investigation and Conviction
Kechiche was arrested two days later at the hospital. Despite initially denying the injuries, multiple medical experts concluded the injuries were consistent with an abusive, non-accidental head injury—specifically, shaking. The boy, now five, is in the care of his family and specialist support agencies.
Detective Sergeant Louise Sutton from the Protecting Vulnerable Persons Unit (PPU) said: “We are pleased PPU’s investigation has secured the conviction against Kechiche whose violent and appalling actions inflicted terrible injuries. His time in prison will never compensate for the life sentence his brutality has imposed on the boy who now faces a lifetime of specialist care and support dealing with his severe disabilities and a limited quality of life. However, we hope today’s verdict will give his family some closure as they try to move on from such a horrible ordeal.”
Sentencing Details
Judge considered Kechiche's guilty plea and first-time offender status, imposing 39 months—less than the maximum five years available for the offence. The sentence reflects the severity of the injuries and the lasting impact on the victim.
