In 2019, the Offender Database reported that Michael Meurs, then 29, of Salmon Close, Nottingham, Nottinghamshire, was sentenced to nine years in prison at Nottingham Crown Court. On Friday, 12 April 2019, Meurs pleaded guilty to causing grievous bodily harm (GBH) with intent following a “vicious” attack on a young boy.
The investigation established that the “horrific” assault occurred on 5 December 2018. The young boy was rushed to the Queen’s Medical Centre by ambulance after an emergency call reported he was unresponsive with a headache and vomiting. Medical staff immediately became suspicious after discovering the extent of his injuries, which included:
- Brain Injury: A bleed to the brain that required urgent surgery and resulted in permanent scarring.
- Fracture: A broken leg.
- Systemic Abuse: A bite mark and more than 30 bruises across his body.
Detection and “Bad Temper” Evidence
Meurs was arrested shortly after the boy was hospitalised. He “evasively” tried to claim he had no knowledge of how the injuries occurred, suggesting the boy had simply fallen and banged his head. However, Nottinghamshire Police successfully charged him based on overwhelming medical evidence, witness accounts, and digital forensics.
The court heard that “phone work” conducted by detectives highlighted Meurs’ “bad temper” and volatile behaviour leading up to the attack. The “vile” nature of the injuries—particularly the bite mark and the severity of the brain trauma—disproved his claims of an accidental fall.
Sentence and Statutory Requirements
For his “abhorrent” crimes in Nottinghamshire, Michael Meurs was handed:
- Custodial Sentence: Nine years in immediate custody.
- Supervision: Mandatory licence conditions and post-release supervision.
- Restraining Order: Protections for the victim to prevent any future contact.
Monitoring and Public Protection
Meurs is managed under Multi-Agency Public Protection Arrangements (MAPPA) by Nottinghamshire Police. His history of “vicious” violence against a defenceless child and his initial attempts to deflect blame mean his status remains under “critical” scrutiny.
Upon his eventual release on licence, Meurs will be subject to strict conditions, including residency restrictions and mandatory reporting. Nottinghamshire Police state that they take all reports of child abuse with the utmost seriousness and will use all available medical and forensic tools to bring perpetrators to justice. Any breach of his release conditions or further displays of a “bad temper” will result in his immediate return to Nottingham Crown Court.
If you or anyone you know has been affected by the individuals highlighted on this website, please report them to the Police on 101 (999 in an emergency) or visit their online resources for further details on reporting a crime. You can also report to Crimestoppers if you wish to remain completely anonymous. There is help available on our support links page.