A Bromley mother, Zoe Coutts, 35, and her boyfriend, Scott O’Connor, 36, have been sentenced to a combined total of 27 years behind bars for months of brutal abuse that resulted in the death of her toddler son, Kol Page.
The sentencing followed their conviction at Southwark Crown Court on charges of manslaughter and causing or allowing the death of a child.
Kol, who was two years old when he was first found critically injured in April 2022, suffered severe abdominal trauma and extensive bruising. The London Ambulance Service found him unresponsive, and doctors confirmed his injuries were caused by blunt force trauma such as punches or stamps.
Despite receiving intensive medical care, Kol died two years later in June 2024, aged four.
During the court proceedings, disturbing text messages between Coutts and O’Connor revealed a dark reality of neglect and violence. One message from O’Connor read: “Jesus slap him back to sleep lol.” Both defendants blamed Kol’s injuries on his supposed clumsiness, but medical and forensic evidence contradicted their claims.
O’Connor was sentenced to 18 years in prison with an additional five-year extended licence, while Coutts received a sentence of nine years and 109 days. The court acquitted them of murder but held them responsible for Kol’s avoidable death through sustained abuse at their Bromley home.
Detective Chief Inspector Kate Blackburn described Kol as an “innocent little boy” who was failed by those meant to protect him. She praised emergency service staff and foster carers for their dedication throughout the harrowing case.
An NSPCC spokesperson called the case heartbreaking, highlighting the sustained violence Kol endured while in the care of his mother.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of child abuse and the critical role police investigations play in securing justice. Kol’s bravery and spirit were honoured by police and advocates to ensure his tragic death will not be forgotten.
Originally published by UKNIP.
