Grandparents who murdered toddler after campaign of horrific abuse will not have their jail sentences increased
Grandparents who murdered toddler after campaign of horrific abuse will not have their jail sentences increased
A pair of grandparents convicted of killing their grandson following years of severe abuse have been denied longer prison terms. The case centers on Michael Ives, 48, and his wife Kerry Ives, 47, who were sentenced to life in prison for the murder of two-year-old Ethan Ives-Griffiths in 2021.
Ethan was found to be profoundly dehydrated and undernourished, with multiple bruises and injuries, when he collapsed from a severe head trauma at his grandparents’ home in Flintshire, North Wales, in August 2021. The post-mortem examination uncovered he was ‘painfully thin’ at just 10 kilograms and had sustained over 40 physical injuries, along with devastating brain damage.
During the appeal, Bill Emlyn Jones KC, representing the Solicitor General, requested the Court of Appeal in London to extend the sentences, arguing they were ‘unduly lenient.’ However, the judges ruled the penalties were fair, citing the circumstances surrounding the crime.
Lord Justice Popplewell emphasized that Ethan was a ‘brave’ and ‘resilient’ child with a ‘strong character,’ noting his grandparents’ dislike for him asserting independence.
CCTV footage played a key role in the trial, showing Michael Ives lifting his grandson by the arm and appearing to strike him before placing him in a car seat. Additional video revealed Ethan walking with an unusual gait in the garden, potentially linked to early signs of brain injuries from prior assaults.
Michael Ives was ordered to serve a minimum of 23 years, while Kerry Ives received 17 years. The judges stated they were ‘unpersuaded’ that the sentences needed adjustment, stressing the sentencing judge had fully considered the aggravating factors of the crime.
Ethan’s mother, Shannon Ives, 28, was also convicted for allowing his death and inflicting cruelty. She was sentenced to 12 years in prison. Her legal team appealed, claiming the term was ‘too long’ and that the judge hadn’t adequately addressed her personal circumstances.
The panel concluded the judges had thoroughly evaluated the arguments but remained convinced the original sentences were appropriate. The case highlights the long-term abuse leading to Ethan’s tragic demise, with his last known sighting at Broughton Retail Park just days before his death.
