Arthur Labinjo-Hughes’ killer stepmum placed in isolation in prison for her own protection

THE killer stepmum of Arthur Labinjo-Hughes is in isolation in prison for her own protection. 

 Emma Tustin, 32, has begun her minimum 29-year sentence at Peterborough jail.

Emma Tustin, the killer stepmum of Arthur Labinjo-Hughes is in isolation in prison for her own protection

Tustin and six-year-old Arthur’s dad, Thomas Hughes, 29, were jailed at Coventry crown court last week. Jurors heard how ­Tustin had carried out the final fatal assault by violently shaking the little boy

Her vulnerable prisoner status means she has no contact with other lags, and eats, exercises and washes with just prison officers for company.

Tustin, seen as the top target for other female cons, is also under near-constant observation to ensure she does not self-harm. 

A source said: “Every effort is being made to protect her from attack. Like it or not, prison officers have a duty to keep order and the rule of law inside. 

“In her case, they’re gritting their teeth to do it but she’s a massive target. It’s only a matter of time before someone takes a chance to do her in.”

Tustin and six-year-old Arthur’s dad, Thomas Hughes, 29, were jailed at Coventry crown court last week. Jurors heard how ­Tustin had carried out the final fatal assault by violently shaking the boy and repeatedly banging his head on a hard surface.

Hughes was not present at the time but had encouraged violence against his son and regularly beat him. He is serving 21 years at HMP Hewell, Worcs. The jail holds 800 male cons. 

Last year inspectors said about two-thirds of lags had mental health issues — putting Hughes himself at high risk of attack.