Dad arrested for child abuse had recently become "primary caretaker," baby in coma (Las Vegas, Nevada)

We reported on dad ANDREW MENDOZA earlier today. Now we find out that he just recently became the "primary caretaker" of his infant son. Mom had "been staying" out of state when the infant was abused; the article is not clear at all as to the circumstances. Did this father get custody?

Glad to see that just for once, we don't have the kings and queens of denial with their "he was such a good daddy" schtick. At least one man chewed out the father for playing mommy instead of getting a job and supporting his family. Good for you, sir! We rarely hear from the "old school" gentlemen anymore. Just the gender neutralists who ignore the babies and young children killed or severely injured while in the care of unemployed fathers or live-in boyfriends.

http://www.ktnv.com/Global/story.asp?S=12033874

Grandmother of infant bitten and beaten wants payback

Posted: Feb 23, 2010 08:43 PM CST

Las Vegas, NV (KTNV) - A three-month-old boy is in critical condition and police say his father is to blame for the despicable abuse. Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Detectives describe the infant's injuries as severe, including human bite marks on his body and blunt force trauma to the abdomen.

21-year-old Andrew Mendoza was booked in jail on 11 felony charges, including eight counts of child abuse.

Mendoza reportedly called paramedics when his son went unresponsive inside at an apartment in the 3900 block of South Decatur on Monday. Police were called a short time later following suspicion that he had been abusing the baby.

The infant's grandmother says she wishes her grandson was never left alone with the man she now calls a devil.

"He's going to go away for life. He deserves it, and they're going to take care of him in jail," said Julie. "My daughter's in a lot of pain."

Julie says her daughter had been staying in Arizona during the suspected abuse. Police believe Andrew Mendoza had recently become the primary care taker of their son.

"She's a great mom. She didn't have a clue. She's the best mom in the world, and I'm the best grandmother in the world," explained Julie.

The apartment where the baby went into a coma is now signified with a homemade sign to keep away. Neighbors in the area say they mind their own business but can't help but ask questions about the reprehensible allegations against this young father.

"What's going through his mind? Baby screaming, I can't do it. This is not my job. My job is to go out there and provide my family, not be taking care of a child," speculated neighbor Alfred Fuenzilda, who knows Mendoza.

Family members of baby Alexander Angel Mendoza say the infant is in the ICU, however relatives do not want to elaborate on his condition.