The mother of a young child who was tragically killed by his own grandparents has disclosed that the child’s father immediately suspected the grandparents of being responsible for the crime. The toddler, Ethan Ives-Griffiths, aged two, passed away two days after suffering a fatal head injury at his grandparents’ residence in Flintshire, North Wales, in August 2021.
Today, Michael Ives has been given a minimum prison sentence of 23 years, while Kerry Ives will serve a minimum of 17 years behind bars. During the trial of the grandparents, emotional testimony was given by a juror who was moved to tears upon hearing the distressing details of the injuries sustained by the child. Disturbing CCTV footage was presented showing Michael Ives handling the toddler roughly, carrying him aggressively towards a vehicle, and dragging him through the garden like a lifeless object.
The court was informed that Ethan had been exhibiting signs of withdrawal, extreme thinness, and had been enduring distress and pain leading up to his tragic death. It was revealed during the proceedings at Mold Crown Court that the grandparents shifted the blame onto their daughter, Shannon Ives, for the death of Ethan. Shannon Ives was found guilty of causing or allowing the death of a child and cruelty towards Ethan.
Following Ethan’s death, his devastated father, Will Griffiths, immediately suspected Michael and Kerry Ives of foul play. Ethan’s paternal grandmother, Kellie Shone, recounted how Will accused Michael of killing his son as soon as he returned home from the hospital. Shone expressed her belief that a dark and oppressive atmosphere had developed in the household over time, likening it to a cult where Michael Ives allegedly used threats of death to control his family through fear.
Prosecutors disclosed that on the night Ethan sustained his fatal injury, he was in the care of his grandparents while his mother was upstairs on a call. The prosecution argued that the attack on Ethan that night was the culmination of neglect and abuse by his grandparents. The court heard that the grandparents chose to blame Shannon Ives for the injuries, maintaining a pact of silence to conceal the truth about Ethan’s demise.
Medical evidence presented in court revealed the extent of Ethan’s injuries, including severe head trauma, malnourishment, and numerous bruises. The jury was informed that Ethan weighed only 10kg at the time of his death and had suffered 40 external injuries. The fatal head injury was determined to have been deliberately inflicted through forceful means, potentially involving shaking.
Video evidence showcased Michael Ives handling Ethan roughly, further illustrating the mistreatment the child endured.