Dad charged with felonious assault of 5-week-old son; baby has skull fracture (Toledo, Ohio)

Dad SHAWN SMITH, SR. has been charged with felonious assault for injuries inflicted on his 5-week-old son. The baby has a skull fracture and possible bleeding on the brain. The baby is in serious condition.

http://www.foxtoledo.com/dpp/news/wupw_infant_injured_father_charged_local_news_michelle_zepeda_august_25th_2009

Infant injured, father charged
5-week-old baby in hospital with brain injury
Updated: Tuesday, 25 Aug 2009, 6:04 PM EDT
Published : Tuesday, 25 Aug 2009, 5:02 PM EDT

Michelle Zepeda

TOLEDO, Ohio - A 5-week-old Toledo baby boy is in the hospital after police say his father abused him.

Shawn Smith, Sr., has been charged with felonious assault after detectives said he allegedly hurt his infant son. Shawn Smith, Jr., was brought into the St. Vincent Medical Mercy Medical Center's emergency room Monday evening with a skull fracture and possible bleeding on the brain.

Detectives said the newborn was allegedly abused at the family's home on Champlain Street in the city's north end.

According to police reports, the parents could not explain how their infant son was hurt.

"The hospital calls us when they have obvious child abuse they're obligated to call," said Capt. Ray Carroll, Toledo Police Department.

Detectives met the family at the hospital and then took the baby's father to the police station for questioning.

"The statements he gave us during the interviews were enough to charge him with the crime," Capt. Carroll said.

Shawn Smith, Sr., was charged with felonious assault, and a Toledo municipal judge set his bond at $500,000. He is being held in Lucas County Jail downtown until his next court appearance.

The infant was listed in serious condition.