A FATHER who admitted “vigorously” shaking his baby son has been convicted of manslaughter.

Matthew Banks, 34, appeared in court on Monday.

It followed an investigation by officers from the West Sussex Safeguarding Investigations Unit into the death of two-year-old Leo Banks.

Leo died at home in February 2020, having been receiving specialist in-patient and out-patient treatment for head injuries he suffered in December 2017 when he was just four weeks old.

Banks, of Gilbert Rod, Chichester, was interviewed by police and admitted shaking Leo “quite vigorously” while he was looking after him during the night.

The Argus: Banks appeared in Worthing Magistrates' Court in FebruaryBanks appeared in Worthing Magistrates' Court in February

He said Leo had been crying hysterically and seemed stressed during a feed, leading Banks to become frustrated and tired.

The following morning, when Leo’s mother woke up and realised he was unwell, medical help was sought.

Banks was charged with manslaughter in February before pleading guilty on Monday at Winchester Crown Court. He will be sentenced on October 21.

Investigating officer Detective Constable Owen Watkins said: “This is a heart-breaking case that has resulted in the tragic and untimely death of an innocent two-year-old boy.

“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.

“We are relieved to secure a guilty plea at court, as it means Leo’s family no longer face the additional trauma of reliving his death through a trial. 

“Our thoughts continue to be with them all at this incredibly difficult time.”