Stay-at-home, alcoholic dad goes on trial for killing 4-month-old daughter (Troy, New York)

Welcome to the new economy. Moms are supposed to work (at 75-80% of what men earn) so unemployed/unemployable deadbeat dads can sit on their bums at home and beat the baby to death. Except now we call these deadbeats by the politically trendy name of "stay-at-home" fathers. The latest deadbeat (and alcoholic) father to go to trial for the murder of an infant: JOSEPH MCELHENY.

http://wnyt.com/article/stories/S2286191.shtml?cat=300

Posted at: 09/15/2011 6:51 PM
By: Beth Wurtmann

Jury begins to hear details of McElheny trial

TROY - A Rensselaer County jury began to hear details in the trial of a Hoosick Falls father accused of killing his four month old daughter.

Attorneys for both sides made their opening statements today in the trial of Joseph McElheny. The defense attorney said the baby had a host of medical problems that led to her death, that her father would never have intentionally hurt her, but prosecutors said this stay at home dad abused the child until she died of a ruptured bowel.

The jury heard how 33 year-old Joseph McElheny was the main caregiver of four month old while the mother worked outside the home.

Prosecutors said over time, McElheny broke the girls bones and ribs in multiple places, and that a final blow to the stomach led to the murder.

McElheny's attorney said the girl had a hereditary condition of intestinal problems, as well as Rickets. The four month old may also have been injured several times in household accidents and the defense said, McElheny was openly proud and loving around his daughter.

The baby's parents have both said in statements to investigators that McElheny had a past history of drinking problems.

McElheny is charged with murder, manslaughter and assault. Prosecutors will call their first witnesses tomorrow.