Father forces son to eat spider, watch graphic horror films to discipline him

A UK court heard about a child's horrific experience under the care of his father.

The eight-year-old's father allegedly forced him to "put a spider in his mouth and watch graphic horror films" as a way of disciplining him, according to a report by the Metro.

To protect the identity of the boy, both names have been sealed.

Under the influence of alcohol, prosecutor Paul Hobson told Swansea Crown Court the man also slapped, punched and kicked his child, which was witnessed by the boy's younger sibling.

After the father assaulted his partner, the boy finally shared his story with a teacher. An investigation there after was launched.

Hobson told the court the son said his father's behaviour made him "sad". The defendant's lawyer Nicola Powell revealed her client was "appalled" by his action and is seeking help for his drinking issues, the report stated.

"Children deserve to be protected and loved by their parents. The way you behaved was totally unacceptable – you could not complain if I sent you straight into custody," Judge Peter Heywood is quoted as saying by the Metro.

Currently, the man is on a community order for the assault on his partner and he has pleaded guilty to two counts of child cruelty. He was sentenced to 12 months in prison, which was suspended for 18 months. He also has to complete a rehabilitation course and 150 hours of unpaid work.

If he breaches the suspended sentence, the judge warned him he will go straight to prison.