A Tasmanian mother has vowed to push for legislative change after the tragic death of her 10-month-old son, who was fatally shaken by her former partner.
Khaylan Butler died in December 2023 after Daniel Ridgers, who is currently serving a six-year prison sentence for manslaughter, became agitated with the infant and shook him.
Madison Butler described her son as “the happiest baby you would ever meet”.
“[He] lit up any room that he walked in … with a cheeky grin that everyone fell in love with,” she told 7.
She said “no justice was served” in Ridgers’ sentencing and that young Khaylan’s life is “worth more” than a six years in prison.
“Laws need to change. Sentences should reflect the severity of the crime,” she said.
Butler is now advocating for stricter sentencing laws in cases of shaken baby syndrome through Khaylan’s Law.
“Even if I can just change so one family doesn’t have to be dragged through the court system as much as we did,” she said.
“It’s not going to bring Khaylan back, but hopefully I can help someone else.”
Attorney-General Guy Barnett indicated he is considering legislative changes and intends to meet with Khaylan’s family.
“I wanted to say how sad this incident is and my sincere condolences to the family of Khaylan,” he said.
“It’s a terrible tragedy and I’ve actually taken preliminary advice. I am considering this very seriously as an Attorney-General and Minister for Justice.”
“In other jurisdictions, specifically Queensland, there’s been a Sentencing Advisory Council report with respect to infant homicides and in that regard, I will be taking further advice.”
