A former auxiliary nurse, Tracy Menhinick, 52, has been sentenced to seven years in prison for severe harm caused to a child by administering non-prescribed laxatives over a three-year period, leading to hospital admissions and unnecessary medical procedures. The sentencing took place at the High Court in Glasgow, where Menhinick was found guilty of causing devastating health consequences to the child, who was aged between three and six during the period of abuse.

Menhinick’s actions resulted in the child’s emaciation, stunted growth, severe physical scarring, and the potential for long-term psychological issues. Despite hospitalization and medical treatment, the child showed no signs of improvement due to the dangerous levels of laxatives administered by Menhinick. It emerged during the trial that she suffers from a factitious disorder known as Fabricated or Induced Illness (FII), which involves inducing or fabricating the illness of those under one’s care.

Judge Lady Drummond condemned the egregious breach of trust and highlighted the incomprehensibility of Menhinick’s actions. Medical professionals testified to the extent of the child’s suffering, including a failure to gain weight and the likelihood of not achieving full growth potential. Menhinick, who appeared in court in a wheelchair, was described by her defence as suffering from mental and physical health issues from a young age. However, the judge noted that Menhinick’s disorders do not necessitate hospital treatment.

The court’s decision underscores the gravity of Menhinick’s actions and their impact on the child’s life. The case has raised severe questions about trust and the protection of vulnerable individuals in healthcare settings. The identity of the child involved remains protected for legal reasons.