Bridgeport couple convicted of sexually abusing a child over a two-year period

BRIDGEPORT, CT (WFSB) – A Bridgeport couple has been convicted of sexually assaulting a child, the Bridgeport District Attorney’s Office announced Thursday.

Shaylyn Smith, 33, was sentenced to 45 years in prison, suspended after serving 34 years, followed by 30 years of probation.

Zabian Bailey, 41, was sentenced to 40 years in prison, followed by 30 years of special parole.

They learned of their fate on Tuesday.

The couple was sentenced on July 31.

Smith was found guilty of first-degree assault and risk of injury to a minor.

Bailey was found guilty of first-degree assault, risk of injury and fourth-degree assault.

“These convictions stem from the sexual abuse of a child between December 27, 2017 and January 9, 2020,” said Joseph Corradino, State’s Attorney for the Bridgeport Judicial District. “The state charged the defendants with multiple counts related to the abuse of a child between the ages of 5 and 7. The child first disclosed these events when she was 8.”

The judge addressed Bailey at sentencing, calling his continued conduct in the case “concerning,” and that his long and substantial criminal history indicated an inability to follow through. She also addressed Smith, indicating that the allegations were such that Smith was the one who “initiated the assault.”

“It took a lot of strength to testify,” the judge told the victim.

The judge noted the victim’s growth since 2020.

“It’s incredible to see the differences before and after,” he said sadly. “You can’t change the past, but you can change the future. Keep doing what you’re doing.”