Paternity Fraud : Another Victim's Life Shattered by Deception

By Michael Thompson, Founder of Paternity Fraud UK

Yesterday's case at Liverpool Crown Court has once again highlighted the devastating consequences of paternity fraud in the UK. As founder of Paternity Fraud UK, I've witnessed countless stories like Ryan Hampson's, whose "entire world fell apart" after discovering the child he loved and raised for over two years was not biologically his.

Beth Fernley's calculated deception—including forging DNA test documents and accepting financial support from a man she knew was not the father of her child—represents exactly the type of case our organization was established to address.

The Human Cost

Mr. Hampson's heart-wrenching victim statement perfectly articulates what paternity fraud victims experience: "The emotional toll of this experience has left me with severe anxiety, panic attacks and nightmares," he told the court. "I relive these painful memories each night."

Perhaps most devastating was his admission that the experience has made him "doubt whether I could ever be a father" again, with the prospect now feeling "like a burden rather than a joy."

This psychological trauma is precisely what makes paternity fraud so insidious. It's not simply financial fraud—it's the systematic destruction of familial bonds and identity.

Here paternity fraud victim Ryan Hampson's interview outside Liverpool Crown Court here (Courtesy of the Liverpool Echo)

https://youtu.be/9OQthFHeBZM?si=e5upSvJSkguE-wsB

A Question of Justice

While the court recognized the "particularly dreadful nature" of this offense, the suspended sentence of 13 months, coupled with just 200 hours of community service and £300 compensation, raises serious questions about how our justice system values the father-child relationship.

Judge Andrew Menary KC acknowledged that "many people would believe" immediate imprisonment was deserved. Instead, parenthood—the very relationship denied to the victim—became the defendant's shield against custodial sentencing.

The Need for Reform

This case demonstrates why Paternity Fraud UK continues to advocate for:

1. Stronger legal consequences for deliberate paternity deception

2. Greater recognition of emotional harm in sentencing considerations

3. Enhanced support services for victims navigating the aftermath

4. Legal reform to protect fathers' rights and children's right to know their biological heritage

The current legal framework remains woefully inadequate in addressing what amounts to years of sustained psychological abuse. The trauma experienced by victims like Mr. Hampson deserves proper recognition within our justice system.

A Call for Awareness

The forging of DNA test results in this case demonstrates the extraordinary lengths some will go to perpetuate paternity fraud. Had Mr. Hampson not eventually discovered the truth, this deception might have continued indefinitely.

At Paternity Fraud UK, we remain committed to raising awareness, supporting victims, and pushing for meaningful legal reform. No one should experience what Ryan Hampson and countless others have endured.

If you have been affected by paternity fraud, please know you are not alone. Our organization provides resources, support networks, and guidance for those navigating similar circumstances.

For too long, paternity fraud has remained in the shadows. Each case that reaches the courts represents a small step toward recognition, but as this latest ruling shows, we still have a long way to go before justice truly reflects the severity of this violation of trust.

*Michael Thompson is the founder of Paternity Fraud UK, an advocacy organization supporting victims and campaigning for legal reform regarding paternity fraud cases.*

Anyone affected by Paternity Fraud can receive support by visiting www.falselyaccusednetwork.co.uk/contact or email paternityfrauduk@gmail.com