In 2013, 6-year-old Ellie Butler tragically died after suffering serious harm inflicted by her father, who had a history of violent behavior.
Recent information suggests that the tragedy might have been avoided if Ellie’s request to speak with the presiding judge had been allowed.
When Ellie was an infant, her father, Ben Butler, caused serious injuries by shaking her violently.
Following this, she was placed in the care of her maternal grandparents, who looked after and raised her.
Meanwhile, Butler was arrested and served time but was cleared of all child abuse charges in 2010 due to a legal technicality.
