Dad Admits Shaking Baby to Death in Heartbreaking Manslaughter Case
Father Pleads Guilty to Manslaughter of Two-Year-Old Son
Matthew Banks, 34, has admitted shaking his baby son so violently that it caused fatal injuries. The tragic death of little Leo Banks rocked Winchester Crown Court on Monday, August 22, where Matthew pleaded guilty to manslaughter.
Injuries Stemmed from Incident When Leo Was Only Four Weeks Old
Leo suffered serious head injuries in December 2017 at just four weeks old. Despite repeated specialist care, the damage proved fatal. The toddler passed away at home in February 2020, leaving the family devastated.
During the investigation, Banks revealed he had “forcefully” shaken Leo during a stressful feeding when the baby was crying hysterically. Lucas’s mother only realised something was wrong the next morning and sought medical help.
Investigation and Guilty Plea Bring Some Closure
Charged with manslaughter in February 2022, Banks finally pleaded guilty this month. His sentencing is set for October 21.
“Matthew Banks was one of the people trusted to look after and care for Leo, but instead his actions caused injuries that Leo was sadly unable to recover from,” said Detective Constable Owen Watkins.
“This is a heart-breaking case with tragic consequences. Securing a guilty plea spares Leo’s family the added anguish of a trial. Our thoughts remain with them at this unimaginably difficult time.”
