TRAFFORD MAN JAILED FOR SHAKING BABY TO DEATH UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF DRUGS
A devastated mother, Caitlin McMichael, has spoken out after her four-month-old son Alfie was shaken to death by his father, Sam Gildea.Caitlin revealed that Alfie would 'never call me mummy' following his brutal death, which Gildea caused while he was under the influence of cocaine and cannabis.
Gildea was responsible for Alfie's death through a 'deliberate and unlawful act of violence involving rigorous and violent shaking.' The court heard that Gildea, 30, had a history of involvement with mental health services and was controlling towards Caitlin, with allegations of domestic abuse.
He had a previous record with 20 convictions, including three prison terms for burglary, but none for violence.
Prosecutors highlighted his violent actions against Alfie, describing the death as 'horrific and unspeakable.' Gildea admitted to causing Alfie’s death, which occurred after he was woken up from a cocaine binge, and subsequently received a sentence of 19 years in prison, with a four-year extended licence.
The judge emphasized the gravity of the crime, stating that killing a child is 'horrific and unspeakable,' and noted that Gildea will have to live with the consequences for the rest of his life.
Caitlin emotional read an apology in court and expressed the deep loss, stating she would never see her boy grow or hear him call her mummy.
Alfie was taken to hospital after Gildea claimed he had only given the child a bottle and winded him, but he died two days later from injuries consistent with violence.
His organs were donated to help others.
Gildea’s actions, under the influence of drugs, and his history of abusive behavior, culminated in his conviction and sentencing for manslaughter and coercive and controlling behavior.
