Grandparents Convicted of Murder After Toddler’s Tragic Collapse

A harrowing case has culminated in the conviction of grandparents Kerry and Michael Ives for the murder of their two-year-old grandson, Ethan Ives-Griffiths. The tragic events unfolded at their home in Garden City, Deeside, on August 14, 2021, when Ethan collapsed and subsequently died in hospital two days later.

On that fateful day, Kerry Ives dialed emergency services, expressing panic as she reported that “his body’s gone all limp.” The audio of the 999 call reveals the frantic moments as the operator guided her in attempting to revive the child. As the call progressed, Kerry struggled to follow instructions, including a request to retrieve a defibrillator from a nearby pharmacy, which she initially did not comprehend. Michael Ives left to fetch the device while emergency services were dispatched.

Despite the ambulance arriving shortly thereafter, Ethan was transferred from the Countess of Chester Hospital to Alder Hey children’s hospital, where he died on August 16, 2021. The circumstances surrounding his death raised serious concerns, leading to a police investigation.

On October 3, 2023, following a deliberation lasting nearly seven hours, a jury at Mold Crown Court found Kerry Ives, aged 46, and her husband Michael, aged 47, guilty of murder and child cruelty. Their daughter, Shannon Ives, aged 28, was also convicted of causing or allowing the death of a child and cruelty to a child under 16.

The court heard evidence of the family’s troubling history, which included previous interventions by social services. The judge, Mr Justice Griffiths, indicated that Michael and Kerry Ives would face life sentences, with a minimum term to be determined, while Shannon could expect “many years” of imprisonment.

In the wake of the trial, a spokeswoman for Flintshire County Council announced that the council would collaborate with the North Wales Safeguarding Board on an independent child practice review. This review aims to evaluate the circumstances surrounding Ethan’s death and the responses from various agencies involved.

The case has sent shockwaves through the community, highlighting the need for vigilance in safeguarding vulnerable children. As the Ives family awaits sentencing, many are left to ponder how such a tragedy could unfold within a family setting, raising pressing questions about child welfare and protective measures in place.