A woman convicted in connection with the death of her toddler has been released after serving less than half of her prison sentence. Frankie Smith, 25, was originally sentenced to eight years in prison for causing or allowing the death of 16-month-old Star Hobson, who died in September 2020. The Court of Appeal subsequently increased Smith’s sentence to 12 years, describing the initial term as “overly lenient.”

Star Hobson died after sustained abuse, with Smith’s partner, Savannah Brockhill, 33, found guilty of murdering the child. Brockhill received a minimum 25-year sentence for the killing, which took place in Keighley, West Yorkshire. Prosecutors said Brockhill repeatedly used the toddler as a "punchbag," and Smith was found to have stood by, failing to protect her daughter.

Despite the increased sentence, Smith was released last month after serving less than five years. Following her release, she was provided with a new identity as part of protective measures. Frank Smith, 73, the child’s grandfather, expressed his dissatisfaction with the outcome, stating that justice had not been served and lamenting that Star Hobson had been denied justice while Smith resumed her life outside prison.

The Ministry of Justice confirmed that Smith is now subject to strict licence conditions designed to monitor her activities and reduce the risk of reoffending. The details of these conditions were not publicly disclosed.

The case has drawn significant public attention due to the tragic circumstances surrounding the child's death and the legal proceedings involving both women. While Brockhill remains incarcerated, Smith’s early release has sparked debate over sentencing and the adequacy of measures to protect vulnerable children.