The mother and twin of a baby who passed away following his father fracturing his arm are advocating for a prohibition on parents who inflict serious harm on their children from having contact with them or their siblings.
Jo Early, aged 54, expressed disapproval that Gavin Gibbs retained the right to communicate with their daughter Abi, 18, even after being imprisoned for causing severe injury to her brother, Charlie.
Gibbs uttered a plea for forgiveness as Charlie was taken off life support at the hospital in October 2008. Although he was acquitted of murder, he was found guilty of breaking the infant’s arm.
Presently, parental responsibility is only revoked when someone is convicted of killing their partner under “Jade’s Law,” in memory of Jade Ward, who was murdered by Russell Marsh in 2021. Jo is now advocating for parents who harm or kill their children to be subject to the same prohibition.
She emphasized the detrimental impact on children when perpetrators have access to them, as it can deprive them of their childhood. Abi shared her experience of receiving messages and gifts from Gibbs, highlighting the confusion and emotional turmoil it caused her.
Gibbs received a three-year sentence for causing grievous bodily harm, which was later reduced to two years following an appeal. Jo requested him to relinquish his parental rights over Abi, but he insisted on maintaining contact with her as a condition.
Jo is actively campaigning for an automatic removal of parental rights in cases like hers and has engaged with Baroness Alison Levitt KC and Victims’ Rights Commissioner Claire Waxman to push for legislative changes.
She is advocating for these modifications to be incorporated into the ongoing Courts and Tribunals Bill in parliament or through a separate Parental Responsibility Act.
Jo and her former spouse met while working at the London Ambulance Service, where she was in the control center and he was a paramedic. They welcomed twins in July 2008, bringing immense joy and completeness to their family.
Tragedy struck when Charlie was admitted to the hospital after experiencing breathing difficulties. Despite efforts to save him, he tragically passed away, leaving Jo devastated.
Initially defending Gibbs, Jo’s perspective shifted when he changed his account of events, leading to their estrangement. Gibbs expressed remorse during the trial, stating he couldn’t save his son.
Following Charlie’s death, it was discovered that he had suffered a fractured skull, broken arm, and leg. Victims Commissioner Claire Waxman OBE supports Jo’s cause, emphasizing the need for stronger measures to protect victims and children from abusive parents.
To show support for Jo’s petition, visit the provided link.
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