A dad who left his child alone at home while he attended a Probation Service appointment was told by a magistrate he was guilty of making a very poor decision.
The man, who is in his 40s and can’t be named to protect the identity of the child, appeared at court in Carlisle on Thursday.
Magistrates were told he left the very young child home alone while he went to meet with a probation officer — fearing he might be returned to prison if he didn’t attend.
The man had left the child with food, watching cartoons on television inside a Penrith house that was locked and secure.
However, a delivery driver arrived at the address, realised the youngster was on their own and raised the alarm.
The dad was said to have been gone from the address for approaching an hour.
In court, he admitted a child neglect charge. “He is deeply remorseful for what has taken place,” said defence solicitor Mark Shepherd.
When asked for his comments, the man told magistrates: “Just that I am very sorry. I was only scared I could could back to prison if I didn’t go to that appointment.”
Magistrates heard and read background information and of positive aspects in the man’s family life. They imposed a 12-month conditional discharge.
Lead magistrate Mark Gear told the man: “If you are guilty of anything, you are guilty of making a very poor decision. What you should have done was contact your probation officer and explain the situation.
“As much as you had enough safeguarding in place, there is always the potential for harm and injury.”
