A 31-year-old man has been jailed for three years after permanently tattooing three children who believed they were receiving temporary designs.
Patrick Coe, of Newcastle, admitted three counts of child cruelty at Newcastle Crown Court. Judge Sarah Mallett described his actions as a “staggeringly stupid” and harmful act which left the children with permanent cosmetic disfigurement.
The court heard Coe used a home tattoo kit and assured the children the small designs would fade. Instead, they were permanently marked. While being tattooed, the children complained of pain, with one victim rating it seven out of ten.
All three were taken to hospital following the incident and given preventative injections for hepatitis B and tetanus, alongside blood tests. One child developed a minor infection, while others experienced swelling, pain and itching.
Evidence presented in court showed that aftercare was inadequate. One victim said the tattooed area was simply wiped with a baby wipe rather than properly cleaned and dressed.
The emotional impact was also detailed. One child was left anxious and required therapy. Another said they “hate” the tattoo and experienced significant distress during medical treatment. A third was described as upset and frightened, suffering sleep problems and ongoing anxiety.
When arrested, Coe told officers he “didn’t see anything wrong” with his actions and was said to have laughed and joked about the situation. The judge noted he has since shown some remorse.
In sentencing, Judge Mallett said: “The children didn’t choose to have a permanent tattoo. They are visibly marked with a permanent reminder of you and this.”
Coe was also handed a 10-year restraining order.