Ellie-May death trial: Lancashire Police thank toddler's father and grandparents 'for their dignity' during prosecution of couple who caused her death

Lauren Coyle, 19, of Collins Road, Bamber Bridge, Preston, and Reece Hitchcott, 20, of The Fieldings, Fulwood, Preston, were cleared of Ellie-May Minshull-Coyle's manslaughter after a trial.

But the jury found them guilty of causing or allowing Ellie-May's death, a count of child cruelty by "caging" her to a bed and another count of child cruelty by restraining her in the bed.

They were each jailed for 10 years.

Detective Chief Inspector Zoe Russo, of the Force Major Investigation Team, has praised Ellie-May's father John Minshull and his parents for their dignity during the investigation.

Ms Russo said: “Ellie May was 19 months old at the time of her death, she was a lively and energetic toddler.

“At that time she was living with her Mother Lauren Coyle and her then boyfriend Reece Hitchcott. Ellie-May was in the care of the very people that should have loved, cared and protected her.

“Today at Liverpool Crown Court, Lauren Coyle and Reece Hitchcott were sentenced for causing or allowing the death of Ellie-May by caging and restraining her in her cot which then meant she could not breath properly and sadly subsequently died.

“This case has been very distressing for all parties concerned, particularly the family of Ellie-May.

"I would like to thank Ellie-May’s Father and Grandparents for the dignity with which they have conducted themselves throughout the investigation and trial.

“I hope the sentence means that they feel some level of justice for the death of Ellie-May has been achieved and my thoughts remain with them.

“My thanks are extended to the wider prosecution team, the expert witnesses, the live witnesses at court and the jury, who at times had to endure some extremely distressing material."

Brett Gerrity, Senior Crown Prosecutor from CPS North West said: “Lauren Coyle and Reece Hitchcott have been jailed today for seriously neglecting Ellie May and causing her death.

"They denied all responsibility and blamed each other but together CPS and police built a strong case and presented the evidence to the jury that proved they were to blame.

"This was a tragic case in which a young toddler who should have been safe and secure at home needlessly lost her life.

"I hope today that Ellie May’s loved ones are able to gain some comfort that justice has been served."‎