A farmer was jailed for one year after accidentally killing his three-year-old son with a tractor on their farm.
His son, Albie Speakman, was only three years old and was playing with the family dogs when the tractor fatally struck him. The court sentenced Neil to one year in prison for his role in the accident.
Speakman lacked proper training to drive the tractor, and the vehicle had issues, including a missing wing mirror. This missing mirror may have contributed to the accident.
Speakman admitted breaching safety rules but was cleared of manslaughter charges. He had previously expressed anger at a hearing, believing the situation was unfair.
The judge criticized Speakman’s disregard for safety, emphasizing that farms must follow HSE guidelines. Speakman must pay £2,000 towards costs at £80 each month. Half of his sentence is served in jail, and the remainder on license.
Speakman told police that Albie knew farm safety, understanding safe and unsafe areas. However, prosecutors argued that the area wasn’t secure, allowing Albie to wander into danger.
Speakman insists he checked everywhere, calling it a tragic accident. Albie’s mother provided a statement describing her constant grief, saying that after two and a half years that the pain does not lessen.
Albie meant everything to her, his absence broke her life. Knowing she’ll see him again keeps her going. She loves her sunshine boy endlessly.