A mother has disclosed that the father of a young child, who tragically lost his life at the hands of his own grandparents, immediately suspected them of being responsible for the heinous act. The toddler, two-year-old Ethan Ives-Griffiths, passed away two days after suffering a fatal head injury while at the residence of his grandparents, Michael Ives, 47, and Kerry Ives, 46, in Flintshire, North Wales in August 2021.
Following the incident, Michael Ives received a minimum prison sentence of 23 years, while Kerry Ives was sentenced to a minimum of 17 years behind bars. During the trial, distressing details emerged about Ethan’s injuries, with CCTV footage showing Michael Ives roughly handling the child and dragging him around.
The court learned that Ethan had been subjected to distress and neglect in the period leading up to his death, being described as “withdrawn” and “painfully thin.” The grandparents shifted blame onto their daughter, Shannon Ives, who was also on trial and found guilty of causing or allowing the death of a child and cruelty towards Ethan.
Ethan’s father, Will Griffiths, pointed fingers at Michael and Kerry soon after the tragic event, indicating his suspicion of their involvement. Allegations surfaced that a toxic environment had been growing in the household, likened to a cult, where Michael Ives allegedly used intimidation tactics to maintain authority over his family.
The prosecution revealed that Ethan was with his grandparents on the night of the fatal incident while his mother was upstairs, and they failed to promptly seek medical help for him. It was asserted that the defendants conspired to conceal the truth of what really happened to Ethan, opting to blame Shannon Ives instead.
Medical evidence indicated that Ethan suffered severe head injuries and was significantly underweight, with numerous external injuries observed during the post-mortem examination. The jury was informed that the fatal head injury was a result of deliberate forceful action, potentially involving shaking.
Video evidence presented in court depicted Michael Ives handling Ethan roughly, further highlighting the disturbing circumstances surrounding the child’s untimely demise.