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Mason Lee's mother could walk from jail in five months


The Queensland Attorney-General will consider appealing the sentence for the Caboolture mother found guilty for her role in the death of toddler Mason Lee.

Mason Lee died at the home of William O’Sullivan, the partner of his mum Anne-Maree Lee, in June 2016.

Lee had left the toddler in his care. O’Sullivan, a violent methamphetamine user, was convicted of manslaughter last year for inflicting a blow which ruptured Mason’s bowel.

In July 2016, Lee wept in front of the cameras after her little boy’s death.

Mason Lee died in 2016 while in the care of the partner of his mum Anne-Maree Lee (pictured in 2016). Lee was jailed for nine years on manslaughter but could walk free in July. Source: 7 News
Mason Lee died in 2016 while in the care of the partner of his mum Anne-Maree Lee (pictured in 2016). Lee was jailed for nine years on manslaughter but could walk free in July. Source: 7 News

“I want answers, I want justice,” she said. “None of this should have happened.”

But her neglect, inaction and cruelty led to the toddler’s death. He suffered horrific injuries but could have survived with help.

On Wednesday, the 29-year-old was convicted of manslaughter.

Mason had cried for days before his death as he was in excruciating pain.

“I want answers, I want justice,” Mason Lee’s mum said after his death in 2016. She was later convicted of manslaughter.

He had fractures and bruises, while an autopsy found meth in his system.

Prosecutor Michael Byrne said the actions of Lee were “grossly negligent”.

“He was vulnerable and defenceless and the one person he was entitled to receive shelter from not only failed to do that but in reality, contributed,” Mr Byrne said.

Lee went to the department of child services the week her son died.

Wiliam O’Sullivan, Lee’s partner, was jailed for nine years over Mason’s death. Source: 7 News
Wiliam O’Sullivan, Lee’s partner, was jailed for nine years over Mason’s death. Source: 7 News

She indicated she was scared and wanted to leave O’Sullivan but didn’t mention Mason.

Lee’s defence argued she didn’t know about her son’s life-threatening injuries, but judge Jean Dalton disagreed and said it was “clear” Lee knew.

She has been sentenced to nine years’ jail but could walk free as early as July.

Queensland Attorney-General Yvette D’Ath could appeal the sentence.

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