Ethan's grandad 'tortured' toddler by making him put hands on head, court hears

A MAN accused of murdering his grandson tortured the toddler by making him put his hands on his head, a court heard.

- By DAVID POWELL Daily Post Reporter

Ethan Ives-Griffiths, aged two, died on August 16, 2021 after collapsing at his grandparents' home in Kingsley Road, Garden City two days previously.

His grandparents Michael Ives, 47, and Kerry Ives, 46, deny his murder, and charges of causing or allowing the death of a child, and child cruelty.

Ethan's mum Shannon Ives, 28, of Nant Garmon, Mold, denies causing or allowing the death of a child, and child cruelty.

The trial yesterday heard that Shannon was asked by police whether Michael's alleged treatment of his grandson was "torture" and she agreed that it was.

Shannon also claimed her dad told her the toddler "needs to be disciplined" but she said she replied "He's two!" The jury also heard that Michael texted another daughter Nicole in July 2021 that "Ethan needs to learn the hard way" but told police he "couldn't remember" what he meant by that.

After collapsing at his grandparents home the following month, Ethan was taken to the Countess of Chester Hospital then transferred to Alder Hey children's hospital on Merseyside where he died on August 16, 2021.