Jody Simpson, the mother who was jailed for the horrific abuse of her six-week-old son Tony Hudgell, has reportedly been attacked in her prison cell and continues to face threats and bullying from fellow inmates.
Brutal Child Abuse Left Baby Tony Fighting for Life
Simpson, 31, was convicted alongside her then-partner Anthony Smith in 2018 after subjecting baby Tony to unimaginable abuse. The infant suffered multiple fractures, dislocations, and blunt trauma to the face. Left without medical treatment for 10 days, his injuries were so severe that both of his legs had to be amputated.
Since his adoption by Mark and Paula Hudgell of Kent, Tony has raised £1.8 million for charity, inspired by the late Captain Tom Moore. His bravery captured the nation’s heart, while his biological mother has become one of the most reviled prisoners in the UK.
Assault and Bullying Behind Bars
Details of Simpson’s assault emerged during a Parole Board judgment, revealing she was physically attacked before her release from prison in February 2024. However, she was recalled to custody in June after breaching licence conditions by entering into a relationship with a convicted sex offender.
The judgment states: “Ms Simpson continues to receive threats and experience bullying within the prison. There is a lot of name-calling and verbal threats to harm her.”
“Prior to release, she was physically assaulted in her room. She is aware there are prisoners who will follow through with their threats and she tries to do all she can to keep herself safe.”
Parole Hearing Behind Closed Doors
Simpson’s legal team opposed a public parole hearing, citing fears for her safety. “Having a public hearing will cause the threats and bullying to escalate. The index offence stirs up strong feelings, and Ms Simpson has genuine fears for her safety.”
Despite showing “some remorse for not having done more to protect Tony,” Simpson still denies her guilt in the abuse that shocked the nation.
