A grandmother convicted of murdering her grandson expressed her inability to cope due to anxiety when calling emergency services. Kerry Ives and her husband, Michael Ives, have been sentenced for the death of their two-year-old grandson, Ethan Ives-Griffiths, following a period of severe abuse.
Michael Ives received a minimum 23-year prison term for Ethan’s murder and an additional nine years for child cruelty, to be served concurrently. Kerry Ives was handed a minimum 17-year sentence for Ethan’s murder and six years for child cruelty, also to run concurrently.
Ethan passed away two days after sustaining a fatal head injury at his grandparents’ residence in Flintshire, North Wales, in August 2021. Medical reports revealed severe head injuries, extreme underweight, and extensive bruising. The court determined that the head injury was intentionally inflicted through forceful actions, possibly involving shaking.
On the day before Ethan’s collapse, Michael Ives reported hearing a loud noise in the living room and finding the child on the floor. Despite initial recovery, Ethan collapsed again the next day while watching TV, leading to his tragic demise two days later at Alder Hey Hospital.
During a distressing 999 call, Kerry Ives attempted to mislead emergency responders, citing anxiety as a hindrance. Despite efforts to resuscitate Ethan, the child remained unresponsive. The operators guided the couple through resuscitation procedures while they reassured Ethan verbally.
Prosecutors highlighted a pattern of neglect and abuse towards Ethan, leading to his fatal collapse. The defendants collaborated to conceal the truth, refusing to disclose the events leading to Ethan’s demise. Shannon Ives, Ethan’s mother, was convicted for negligence and child cruelty, having failed to protect her son despite knowing the risks posed by her parents.
CCTV footage presented in court depicted the grandfather mistreating Ethan and shifting blame onto Shannon. Testimonies revealed a history of violent behavior towards Ethan, causing fear and distress among family members.
Ethan’s tragic passing, marked by numerous injuries and significant weight loss, underscored the severe mistreatment he endured. Following medical interventions, Ethan succumbed to his injuries, prompting legal actions against the perpetrators.