Illinois – An Illinois parent was arrested and charged with one count of felony aggravated battery for allegedly abusing his two-month-old child. According to Illinois authorities, the baby had three separate brain injuries, an upper-arm fracture near her shoulder, and bruises all over her body.
The case came to light earlier this month when a Department of Children and Family Services caseworker visited the hospital and discovered the child’s mother had brought her in with concerning symptoms.
The mother stated that she had left the baby in the father’s care while she went to work. The man called later that day, saying the baby was crying uncontrollably and could not be soothed.
When the mother returned home that evening, she reported that the baby was screaming in distress, unlike anything she had heard before, and that she noticed bruising while changing the baby’s diaper.
Concerned, both parents took the child to the hospital, where medical examinations revealed three distinct brain injuries, a fractured upper arm, and extensive bruising throughout her body. Doctors determined that the pattern of injuries was not consistent with an accidental fall.
During a police interview, the father allegedly admitted to becoming overstimulated and overwhelmed while caring for the infant.
He explained that the baby had fallen and he had grabbed her arm. He also suggested that the child may have struck something or been treated harshly, but he claimed he could not remember what happened or how the injuries occurred.
According to Illinois authorities, what distinguishes this case is the severity and scope of the injuries. The infant had three separate brain hemorrhages and fractures, indicating that the incident was not a one-time occurrence.
Last week, Judge GiIIes held a detention hearing and ruled that the defendant must remain in custody while awaiting trial. His initial arraignment is set for July 10.
In Illinois, aggravated battery for causing great bodily harm to a child carries severe penalties, including up to several years in prison.
The investigating agencies, which include the local police department and DCFS, are still gathering evidence. The medical observations indicate that the injuries were not accidental.
