Frankie Smith released from prison after Star Hobson death conviction

Frankie Smith has been released from prison following the 2020 death of her 16-month-old daughter, Star Hobson. Smith was convicted of causing or allowing the death of the child after Savana Brukhill, her partner, brutally beat the toddler to death in Keighley, West Yorkshire.

While Brukhill received a life sentence with a minimum of 25 years, Smith’s original eight-year sentence was increased to 12 years on appeal. However, the Ministry of Justice confirmed her release on license after she served less than six years. This decision followed a determination that Smith, who was under 21 at the time of sentencing, should have been sent to a youth offender institution rather than an adult prison.

The case involved months of severe abuse, including hitting, slapping, and choking, which occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite reports to social services and police prior to the death, the child did not receive adequate protection. Smith’s family has expressed profound dissatisfaction with the release, stating that justice has not been served.