Dad pleads not guilty to abusing 7-week-old son (Joshua Tree, California)

Dad ROBERT SHERRELL is apparently playing the "clumsy daddy" card.

http://www.hidesertstar.com/news/article_21846138-6a82-11e1-a035-001871e3ce6c.html

Father pleads not guilty to child abuse

 Posted: Friday, March 9, 2012 11:24 pm

Staff report

JOSHUA TREE — A Twentynine Palms man pleaded not guilty Friday, March 9, to a charge he purposely hurt his 7-week-old son.

Robert Sherrell, 21, was arrested after an investigation into injuries suffered by a baby boy Sherrell and his wife brought to the Naval hospital aboard the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Saturday, March 3.

According to Sgt. Roberto Lomeli from the Sheriff’s Department, Sherrell had been alone with the baby and told hospital personnel he fell while holding the child.

The baby had head injuries and was flown to the Loma Linda Children’s Hospital. Further examination revealed he had numerous internal injuries. Forensic pediatricians determined the injuries were suspicious and could be caused by child abuse.

The baby is currently in serious but stable condition and is expected to survive.

Sherrell was charged with willful cruelty to a child and booked at the Central Detention Center in Rancho Mirage. He is being held in lieu of $100,000 bail.

He was assigned a public defender at his arraignment Friday, March 9, in Joshua Tree Superior Court.