Read between the lines. Dad KINGSA MCNIGHT had to be custodial, with Mom having little to no contact or visitation. Otherwise, there is no way this child could have been dying at home for 8 days without Mom knowing or intervening. So how did this violent killer dad get custody? Who gave it to him? And why was he sleeping with a 3-year-old who supposedly wet the bed?
See the Killer Dads and Custody list for Washington.
http://q13fox.com/2016/02/19/father-sentenced-to-28-years-for-beating-3-year-old-son-to-death-over-bed-wetting/
Father sentenced to 28 years for beating 3-year-old son to death over bed wetting
Posted 4:22 PM, February 19, 2016, by Q13 FOX News Staff
TACOMA — A Tacoma man was sentenced Friday to 28 years in prison for beating his 3-year-old son to death because he became angry over the toddler’s bed wetting.
Kingsa McKnight, 34, pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and first-degree assault for the 2014 beating death of his son.
According to prosecutors, McKnight took his son to an urgent care center on June 13, 2014, because he was lethargic and vomiting. The nurse told him the child needed to be taken to an emergency room immediately, but instead McKnight took his son home.
Eight days later, the boy lost consciousness and his father took him to the hospital, where the child was placed on life support. Prosecutors said the boy had bruises on his head and chest, and a CT scan revealed two subdural hemorrhages and a skull fracture. Doctors determined the head injuries were inflicted just a few hours before the child’s arrival at the hospital.
Further testing revealed the boy had suffered a liver laceration and a rib fracture at different times during the last month.
On June 23, the boy was taken off life support and died.
The victim’s mother — who lived separately from the husband — told detectives that McKnight was angry because the child was having potty training issues.
McKnight told detectives that he shared a bed with his son, and his son had wet the bed the two previous nights, prosecutors said.
Showing posts with label fractured skull. Show all posts
Showing posts with label fractured skull. Show all posts
Saturday, February 20, 2016
Tuesday, February 16, 2016
Dad, step arrested in beating death of 14-year-old son;why did this violent father have any custodial rights? (Jefferson Parish, Louisiana)
Not one word here on why violent father FURNELL DANIELS had child custody rights, or what those rights were. Did he have primary physical custody? Joint custody? Sole custody? Who gave him his custodial rights? Was their prior evidence of child abuse and/or domestic violence--but Dad got his "rights" anyway?
See the Killer Dads and Custody list for Louisiana.
http://www.nola.com/crime/index.ssf/2016/02/waggman_boy_beaten_by_father_h.html
Waggaman boy beaten by father has died, authorities say
Jalen Daniel, 14, was pronounced brain dead on Monday (Feb. 8) two days after he was hospitalized with grave injuries authorities said he received at the hands of his father, Furnell Daniels, 43.
By Michelle Hunter, NOLA.com | The Times-Picayune
on February 11, 2016 at 11:57 AM, updated February 11, 2016 at 4:02 PM
Jalen Daniel, the Waggaman boy hospitalized Saturday after authorities say he was beaten by his father with a piece of wood, has died, according to the Jefferson Parish coroner's office.
An autopsy performed Thursday morning (Feb, 11) determined Jalen, 14, died of an epidural hemorrhage (bleeding between his brain and skull) due to a skull fracture from blunt force trauma, said Mark Bone, chief death investigator for the coroner's office.
Medical officials pronounced Jalen brain dead on Monday but he remained in the hospital after his relatives made the decision to donate his organs and help others.
"He had the biggest heart and (was) one of the sweetest kids that you wanted to meet," Jalen's mother, LaTonya Kelly said. "He is loved and will be missed by everyone that knew him."
Jefferson Parish Sheriff's Office detectives arrested Jalen's father, Furnell Daniel, 43, and his stepmother, Terri Daniel, 30, Saturday and booked them with second-degree cruelty to a juvenile.
Investigators upgraded the charges Thursday to second-degree murder, said Col. John Fortunato, spokesman for the department.
Detectives took the couple into custody after Furnell Daniel contacted 911 seeking medical attention for his son. He told deputies Jalen injured himself in a fall in the bathtub.
But investigators and physicians determined the boy's severe injuries -- including swollen bruises, cuts and scrapes -- didn't fit that story. Jalen's brother told investigators the boy was injured Friday night when their father hit him several times with a piece of wood because of low grades, authorities said.
Furnell Daniel is accused of chasing his son through their Waggaman home, striking the boy. Emergency responders reported finding a splinter of wood in a wound above Jalen's eye, the Sheriff's Office said.
Jalen was lethargic for most of Friday night and needed help getting out of a bathtub. Despite speaking incoherently, collapsing and making gurgling sounds, authorities say Furnell and Terri Daniel didn't immediately call anyone to get Jalen medical attention. They finally called 911 around 12:22 p.m. Saturday.
Jalen's loss has been devastating for relatives who've posted photos and memories, including pictures of his infectious smile.
"Anyone that knew him saw that smile everyday," Kelly said.
In addition to pictures, relatives have also posted blue ribbons symbolizing the fight against child abuse.
Furnell and Terri Daniel were being held without bond Thursday at the Jefferson Parish Correctional Center in Gretna.
Stay with NOLA.com | The Times-Picayune for more on this story.
*An earlier version of this story in correctly spelled the name of the suspect as Furnell Daniels based on public records. The correct spelling is Furnell Daniel.
See the Killer Dads and Custody list for Louisiana.
http://www.nola.com/crime/index.ssf/2016/02/waggman_boy_beaten_by_father_h.html
Waggaman boy beaten by father has died, authorities say
Jalen Daniel, 14, was pronounced brain dead on Monday (Feb. 8) two days after he was hospitalized with grave injuries authorities said he received at the hands of his father, Furnell Daniels, 43.
By Michelle Hunter, NOLA.com | The Times-Picayune
on February 11, 2016 at 11:57 AM, updated February 11, 2016 at 4:02 PM
Jalen Daniel, the Waggaman boy hospitalized Saturday after authorities say he was beaten by his father with a piece of wood, has died, according to the Jefferson Parish coroner's office.
An autopsy performed Thursday morning (Feb, 11) determined Jalen, 14, died of an epidural hemorrhage (bleeding between his brain and skull) due to a skull fracture from blunt force trauma, said Mark Bone, chief death investigator for the coroner's office.
Medical officials pronounced Jalen brain dead on Monday but he remained in the hospital after his relatives made the decision to donate his organs and help others.
"He had the biggest heart and (was) one of the sweetest kids that you wanted to meet," Jalen's mother, LaTonya Kelly said. "He is loved and will be missed by everyone that knew him."
Jefferson Parish Sheriff's Office detectives arrested Jalen's father, Furnell Daniel, 43, and his stepmother, Terri Daniel, 30, Saturday and booked them with second-degree cruelty to a juvenile.
Investigators upgraded the charges Thursday to second-degree murder, said Col. John Fortunato, spokesman for the department.
Detectives took the couple into custody after Furnell Daniel contacted 911 seeking medical attention for his son. He told deputies Jalen injured himself in a fall in the bathtub.
But investigators and physicians determined the boy's severe injuries -- including swollen bruises, cuts and scrapes -- didn't fit that story. Jalen's brother told investigators the boy was injured Friday night when their father hit him several times with a piece of wood because of low grades, authorities said.
Furnell Daniel is accused of chasing his son through their Waggaman home, striking the boy. Emergency responders reported finding a splinter of wood in a wound above Jalen's eye, the Sheriff's Office said.
Jalen was lethargic for most of Friday night and needed help getting out of a bathtub. Despite speaking incoherently, collapsing and making gurgling sounds, authorities say Furnell and Terri Daniel didn't immediately call anyone to get Jalen medical attention. They finally called 911 around 12:22 p.m. Saturday.
Jalen's loss has been devastating for relatives who've posted photos and memories, including pictures of his infectious smile.
"Anyone that knew him saw that smile everyday," Kelly said.
In addition to pictures, relatives have also posted blue ribbons symbolizing the fight against child abuse.
Furnell and Terri Daniel were being held without bond Thursday at the Jefferson Parish Correctional Center in Gretna.
Stay with NOLA.com | The Times-Picayune for more on this story.
*An earlier version of this story in correctly spelled the name of the suspect as Furnell Daniels based on public records. The correct spelling is Furnell Daniel.
Thursday, January 14, 2016
Custodial dad may face murder charge in beating death of 3-month-old baby (Bahrain, United Arab Emirates)
UNNAMED DAD
http://www.gdnonline.com/Details/59012/Father-may-face-murder-charge-for-baby%E2%80%99s-death
Father may face murder charge for baby’s death
Thu, 14 Jan 2016
Noor Zahra
Bahrain: A Bahraini father could be charged with murder after allegedly beating to death his three-month-old child.
The GDN reported on Tuesday that the father and his wife were arrested after the infant died in hospital from severe head injuries.
It has now emerged that the woman, from the UAE, who was not the child’s mother has been released from custody without charge.
However, the 35-year-old father has been remanded in custody while investigations continue. Initial reports suggested the child was four months old, but sources told the GDN yesterday that he was actually three months old.
They added a medical examiner’s report concluded the child suffered a severe fracture to the skull from a blow to the back of the head.
The father is now due to appear at the Public Prosecution on Monday and sources said neighbours would also be summoned to give evidence.
It is understood the man’s wife could testify against him in court if the case goes to trial.
However, the father previously denied the allegations during questioning and claimed he was not present when his son suffered the fatal injury in an accident at his home.
The child, who was staying with his father because his mother was out of the country, was taken to Salmaniya Medical Complex after suffering the injury.
However, he died four days after being admitted.
The father faces a 25-year jail sentence if he is charged and convicted of murder.
http://www.gdnonline.com/Details/59012/Father-may-face-murder-charge-for-baby%E2%80%99s-death
Father may face murder charge for baby’s death
Thu, 14 Jan 2016
Noor Zahra
Bahrain: A Bahraini father could be charged with murder after allegedly beating to death his three-month-old child.
The GDN reported on Tuesday that the father and his wife were arrested after the infant died in hospital from severe head injuries.
It has now emerged that the woman, from the UAE, who was not the child’s mother has been released from custody without charge.
However, the 35-year-old father has been remanded in custody while investigations continue. Initial reports suggested the child was four months old, but sources told the GDN yesterday that he was actually three months old.
They added a medical examiner’s report concluded the child suffered a severe fracture to the skull from a blow to the back of the head.
The father is now due to appear at the Public Prosecution on Monday and sources said neighbours would also be summoned to give evidence.
It is understood the man’s wife could testify against him in court if the case goes to trial.
However, the father previously denied the allegations during questioning and claimed he was not present when his son suffered the fatal injury in an accident at his home.
The child, who was staying with his father because his mother was out of the country, was taken to Salmaniya Medical Complex after suffering the injury.
However, he died four days after being admitted.
The father faces a 25-year jail sentence if he is charged and convicted of murder.
Wednesday, December 30, 2015
Dad charged with severely injuring 2-month-old son while baby in dad's custody (Tampa, Florida)
Utterly ridiculous that a 2-month-old infant should have been subjected to visitation. Dad is identified as KENT HAWKINS JOHNSON SR. How much do you want to bet that Daddy had a previous record of violence that was ignored when these custody arrangements were inflicted on this poor baby.
http://www.abcactionnews.com/news/hillsborough-regional-news/father-charged-with-severely-injuring-infant-son
Father charged with severely injuring infant son
By: WFTS Webteam
Posted: 8:31 PM, Dec 29, 2015 Updated: 11:17 PM, Dec 29, 2015
A 2-month-old child clung to life Tuesday after Hillsborough County deputies say his father left him in critical condition.
Kent Hawkins Johnson Sr., 23, of Tampa has been charged with two counts of aggravated child abuse.
A family member told ABC Action News the child, Kent Johnson Jr., is the suspect's son.
ABC Action News will have more on this story on air at 11 p.m., including the latest update on the child's condition.
Deputies began investigating after the victim arrived at a hospital 4:30 a.m. Monday with severe injuries.
The child’s injuries occurred on two separate days while he was in Johnson’s custody, according to law enforcement. On Dec. 19 the child’s ribs and femur were fractured.
The child’s skull was fractured Sunday.
Johnson told law enforcement he was holding the child on his shoulders and spinning him in circles when he fell, causing the boy to hit tile floor.
He said this is probably when the child’s ribs and leg were fractured.
Law enforcement said Johnson told them he purposely hit the child on the head Sunday while the boy was crying.
Johnson is being held without bond at the Hillsborough County Jail.
http://www.abcactionnews.com/news/hillsborough-regional-news/father-charged-with-severely-injuring-infant-son
Father charged with severely injuring infant son
By: WFTS Webteam
Posted: 8:31 PM, Dec 29, 2015 Updated: 11:17 PM, Dec 29, 2015
A 2-month-old child clung to life Tuesday after Hillsborough County deputies say his father left him in critical condition.
Kent Hawkins Johnson Sr., 23, of Tampa has been charged with two counts of aggravated child abuse.
A family member told ABC Action News the child, Kent Johnson Jr., is the suspect's son.
ABC Action News will have more on this story on air at 11 p.m., including the latest update on the child's condition.
Deputies began investigating after the victim arrived at a hospital 4:30 a.m. Monday with severe injuries.
The child’s injuries occurred on two separate days while he was in Johnson’s custody, according to law enforcement. On Dec. 19 the child’s ribs and femur were fractured.
The child’s skull was fractured Sunday.
Johnson told law enforcement he was holding the child on his shoulders and spinning him in circles when he fell, causing the boy to hit tile floor.
He said this is probably when the child’s ribs and leg were fractured.
Law enforcement said Johnson told them he purposely hit the child on the head Sunday while the boy was crying.
Johnson is being held without bond at the Hillsborough County Jail.
Friday, October 30, 2015
Custodial dad FINALLY goes to trial for 1994 torture-murder of 17-year-old daughter (Toronto, Canada)
The custodial dad is identified as EVERTON BIDDERSINGH.
There are an amazing number of cases like this. Poor mothers in imporverished countries who lose custody to fathers in the wealthier countries. Fathers who can presumably provide these children with a "better life." And the "better life" turns out to be torture and death.
See the Killer Dads and Custody list for Canada.
http://www.thestar.com/news/crime/2015/10/28/trial-starts-for-dad-charged-in-daughters-murder-after-body-found-in-suitcase.html
Melonie’s terrible last days unroll in courtroom as her father’s trial begins
The Crown outlines its case against Everton Biddersingh, whose daughter was found burned in a suitcase in 1991.
By:Rosie DiManno
Columnist, Published on Wed Oct 28 2015
Melonie Biddersingh came to Canada from Jamaica in early 1991 with nothing more than a single suitcase.
Whether this was the same suitcase in which her charred remains were found three years later, behind a Vaughan commercial building, is unknown.
The known details are gruesome: 21 healing fractures discovered on autopsy, when that pitiful corpse was examined by a coroner; weight of 50 pounds, far below the normal body index range for a 5-foot-2 teenager, indicating severe malnourishment; an ante-mortem — before death — head contusion that had resulted from trauma or blunt force injury; fluid in the nostrils and bone marrow, indicative of drowning as either a cause of death or major contributing factor — the liquid from a freshwater source, not tap water, perhaps pooling rain.
All of these details were related in a Toronto courtroom Wednesday, as the prosecution laid out its case against Melonie’s biological father.
To the death roll of Randal Dooley and Jeffrey Baldwin, children starved to death and grotesquely mistreated while alive, right in our midst, add now the name of this 17-year-old who lived and died with nobody taking notice.
All but held prisoner, the court was told, in a one-room apartment she shared with her father, her stepmother, two brothers, two half-brothers and, eventually, an infant half-sister for whom she was responsible. When the baby’s diaper needed changing, Melonie would be summoned with a buzzer.
She was not allowed to attend school, though furthering her education — her ambition to one day become a nurse — was the main reason Melonie had been excited about moving to Canada, leaving behind a mother and four other siblings, living in abject poverty in a slum shack.
The harshness of Melonie’s existence was only summarily outlined by Crown Attorney Anna Tenhouse in her opening address to the jury. The details here are all from that address:
At times, the teen was kept in a closet, “hidden from the outside world.”
She was made to shower on the balcony in summer, was at times locked out there as punishment, and forced to use a bucket to relieve herself.
She was called names like “the devil,” told that she’d brought evil to the family.
Made to sleep on a piece of cardboard on the living room floor, though there was a sofa bed nearby.
Had her head placed in the toilet and the toilet flushed, as punishment.
Was kicked and punched about her body, dragged by the hair and stomped upon.
Was at times chained to furniture.
Deprived of food, she became so weak she could no longer hold her baby sister. Enfeebled to the point that her older brother had to help her bathe after the girl urinated or defecated on herself.
That brother, Cleon, was allegedly forced to sell drugs and warned that, if he ever told anyone about it, or about the abuse in their home, “harm would come to him and his family in Jamaica,” Tenhouse told the jury.
Cleon got out by and by, ran away. Melonie’s other brother, Dwayne — 12 when he arrived in Toronto, a year younger than Melonie — died in an accident 17 months later.
Melonie died, court was told, on Sept. 1, 1994. This is not yet evidence. It is the prosecution’s claim.
But the photograph displayed on a screen in the courtroom — that’s evidence.
Blackened, curled into a pathetic heap of limbs, bits of singed hair still visible on the death scalp.
In the front row, Melonie’s mother, Opal Austin, choked on a sob and wept. Melonie’s sister, Racquel Ellis, was overcome: “I can’t breathe, I can’t breathe.”
Who could do this terrible thing?
Melonie’s father, Everton Biddersingh, pleaded not guilty to first-degree murder. His wife, Elaine Biddersingh — Melonie’s stepmother — has also been charged with first-degree murder but will be tried separately next year.
On Aug. 31, 1994, Det. Steven Seabrook, then a constable with the canine unit of York Regional Police, was patrolling in the Highway 7 area when he noticed a plume of black smoke. He tracked it to a spot behind an industrial area. What he saw, at first, were flames a couple of metres high, emanating from a pile close to a garbage bin. At the base of the fire was a tire, largely melted — source of the black smoke, from the burning rubber.
The heat was so intense Seabrook could come no closer than 4 or 5 metres.
Another officer arrived with a fire extinguisher, but that only put the blaze out temporarily. The flames sprung back.
Next came the firefighters, who were able to douse the pyre with water. And then they all saw, amidst the charred heap, a grisly sight.
“At that point, it was obvious to us there was a body lying on the tire, in the fetal position. No flesh on the legs, the head was very black and charred,’’ Seabrook testified yesterday. “I noticed a metal square shape around the body, looked like the frame of a suitcase.’’
The Suitcase Girl, as she became known in the media, once it was determined that the corpse was female.
No name. And no one came forward with information about a missing teenage girl.
Those with long memories may recall, as the years went by, the occasional press conferences as police continued attempts to identify her. The artist’s depiction of how she may have looked. The forensic sculpture of a female head, which triggered no public recognition either.
They never gave up but they never came close to solving the mystery.
Eighteen years would pass, longer than the length and breadth of Melonie’s sad life.
And then, as Tenhouse told court, the secret was exposed, the plotline that police have never revealed. On Dec. 11, 2011, Elaine Biddersingh confessed to her pastor, court heard, that the girl in the suitcase was her step-daughter. The minister took that information to police, and the Toronto Police cold case unit took carriage of the matter.
Opal Austin, living in Jamaica, was contacted. For nearly 20 years she had wondered what had become of her daughter and sought information. Everton Biddersingh told her Melonie had run away to New York.
DNA from the mother was matched to The Suitcase Girl, confirming her identity. She had a name. She claimed her history.
Outside court, Racquel Ellis told reporters: “It’s like the hole of my belly button dropped out. I couldn’t breathe. I had to come out of the courtroom. It’s like my heart was going to stop beating.’’
Everton and Elaine Biddersingh were arrested on March 5, 2012, in Welland, Ont.
Yesterday, the father never appeared to even once glance at the mother of their dead and desecrated daughter.
Melonie.
Rosie DiManno usually appears Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday.
There are an amazing number of cases like this. Poor mothers in imporverished countries who lose custody to fathers in the wealthier countries. Fathers who can presumably provide these children with a "better life." And the "better life" turns out to be torture and death.
See the Killer Dads and Custody list for Canada.
http://www.thestar.com/news/crime/2015/10/28/trial-starts-for-dad-charged-in-daughters-murder-after-body-found-in-suitcase.html
Melonie’s terrible last days unroll in courtroom as her father’s trial begins
The Crown outlines its case against Everton Biddersingh, whose daughter was found burned in a suitcase in 1991.
By:Rosie DiManno
Columnist, Published on Wed Oct 28 2015
Melonie Biddersingh came to Canada from Jamaica in early 1991 with nothing more than a single suitcase.
Whether this was the same suitcase in which her charred remains were found three years later, behind a Vaughan commercial building, is unknown.
The known details are gruesome: 21 healing fractures discovered on autopsy, when that pitiful corpse was examined by a coroner; weight of 50 pounds, far below the normal body index range for a 5-foot-2 teenager, indicating severe malnourishment; an ante-mortem — before death — head contusion that had resulted from trauma or blunt force injury; fluid in the nostrils and bone marrow, indicative of drowning as either a cause of death or major contributing factor — the liquid from a freshwater source, not tap water, perhaps pooling rain.
All of these details were related in a Toronto courtroom Wednesday, as the prosecution laid out its case against Melonie’s biological father.
To the death roll of Randal Dooley and Jeffrey Baldwin, children starved to death and grotesquely mistreated while alive, right in our midst, add now the name of this 17-year-old who lived and died with nobody taking notice.
All but held prisoner, the court was told, in a one-room apartment she shared with her father, her stepmother, two brothers, two half-brothers and, eventually, an infant half-sister for whom she was responsible. When the baby’s diaper needed changing, Melonie would be summoned with a buzzer.
She was not allowed to attend school, though furthering her education — her ambition to one day become a nurse — was the main reason Melonie had been excited about moving to Canada, leaving behind a mother and four other siblings, living in abject poverty in a slum shack.
The harshness of Melonie’s existence was only summarily outlined by Crown Attorney Anna Tenhouse in her opening address to the jury. The details here are all from that address:
At times, the teen was kept in a closet, “hidden from the outside world.”
She was made to shower on the balcony in summer, was at times locked out there as punishment, and forced to use a bucket to relieve herself.
She was called names like “the devil,” told that she’d brought evil to the family.
Made to sleep on a piece of cardboard on the living room floor, though there was a sofa bed nearby.
Had her head placed in the toilet and the toilet flushed, as punishment.
Was kicked and punched about her body, dragged by the hair and stomped upon.
Was at times chained to furniture.
Deprived of food, she became so weak she could no longer hold her baby sister. Enfeebled to the point that her older brother had to help her bathe after the girl urinated or defecated on herself.
That brother, Cleon, was allegedly forced to sell drugs and warned that, if he ever told anyone about it, or about the abuse in their home, “harm would come to him and his family in Jamaica,” Tenhouse told the jury.
Cleon got out by and by, ran away. Melonie’s other brother, Dwayne — 12 when he arrived in Toronto, a year younger than Melonie — died in an accident 17 months later.
Melonie died, court was told, on Sept. 1, 1994. This is not yet evidence. It is the prosecution’s claim.
But the photograph displayed on a screen in the courtroom — that’s evidence.
Blackened, curled into a pathetic heap of limbs, bits of singed hair still visible on the death scalp.
In the front row, Melonie’s mother, Opal Austin, choked on a sob and wept. Melonie’s sister, Racquel Ellis, was overcome: “I can’t breathe, I can’t breathe.”
Who could do this terrible thing?
Melonie’s father, Everton Biddersingh, pleaded not guilty to first-degree murder. His wife, Elaine Biddersingh — Melonie’s stepmother — has also been charged with first-degree murder but will be tried separately next year.
On Aug. 31, 1994, Det. Steven Seabrook, then a constable with the canine unit of York Regional Police, was patrolling in the Highway 7 area when he noticed a plume of black smoke. He tracked it to a spot behind an industrial area. What he saw, at first, were flames a couple of metres high, emanating from a pile close to a garbage bin. At the base of the fire was a tire, largely melted — source of the black smoke, from the burning rubber.
The heat was so intense Seabrook could come no closer than 4 or 5 metres.
Another officer arrived with a fire extinguisher, but that only put the blaze out temporarily. The flames sprung back.
Next came the firefighters, who were able to douse the pyre with water. And then they all saw, amidst the charred heap, a grisly sight.
“At that point, it was obvious to us there was a body lying on the tire, in the fetal position. No flesh on the legs, the head was very black and charred,’’ Seabrook testified yesterday. “I noticed a metal square shape around the body, looked like the frame of a suitcase.’’
The Suitcase Girl, as she became known in the media, once it was determined that the corpse was female.
No name. And no one came forward with information about a missing teenage girl.
Those with long memories may recall, as the years went by, the occasional press conferences as police continued attempts to identify her. The artist’s depiction of how she may have looked. The forensic sculpture of a female head, which triggered no public recognition either.
They never gave up but they never came close to solving the mystery.
Eighteen years would pass, longer than the length and breadth of Melonie’s sad life.
And then, as Tenhouse told court, the secret was exposed, the plotline that police have never revealed. On Dec. 11, 2011, Elaine Biddersingh confessed to her pastor, court heard, that the girl in the suitcase was her step-daughter. The minister took that information to police, and the Toronto Police cold case unit took carriage of the matter.
Opal Austin, living in Jamaica, was contacted. For nearly 20 years she had wondered what had become of her daughter and sought information. Everton Biddersingh told her Melonie had run away to New York.
DNA from the mother was matched to The Suitcase Girl, confirming her identity. She had a name. She claimed her history.
Outside court, Racquel Ellis told reporters: “It’s like the hole of my belly button dropped out. I couldn’t breathe. I had to come out of the courtroom. It’s like my heart was going to stop beating.’’
Everton and Elaine Biddersingh were arrested on March 5, 2012, in Welland, Ont.
Yesterday, the father never appeared to even once glance at the mother of their dead and desecrated daughter.
Melonie.
Rosie DiManno usually appears Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday.
Tuesday, October 13, 2015
"Primary caretaker" dad pleads guilty to involutary manslaughter in death of 3-month-old son; threw baby into because he was "frustrated" (Macon, Georgia)
Dad is identified as RICHARD ALLEN HICKS.
http://www.macon.com/news/local/crime/article38849418.html
Macon father sentenced to prison in infant son’s 2012 death
Richard Allen Hicks, 28, of Macon, pleaded guilty Monday to involuntary manslaughter in the 2012 death of his infant son, Desmond.
He was sentenced to eight years in prison followed by two years on probation.
By AMY LEIGH WOMACK
A little more than two years after Richard Allen Hicks was injured in a grenade attack in Iraq, he was charged with murder in the death of his 3-month-old son.
Hicks had served about five years in the U.S. Army.
After receiving the purple heart and other awards, he was honorably discharged in July 2011, his lawyer, Mark Beberman said during a Monday hearing in Bibb County Superior Court.
After finding it difficult to land a job, Hicks became the primary caregiver for his three children.
July 14, 2012, the mother of his youngest child, 3-month-old Desmond, came home and found the boy seemingly asleep on Hicks’ chest, said prosecutor Kevin Ströberg.
“She picked up Desmond and he wasn’t responsive. He wasn’t breathing,” Ströberg said.
After an unsuccessful attempt to revive the child by CPR, he was rushed to a local hospital where doctors discovered he had a fractured skull and a brain bleed.
The boy’s ribs also were fractured, Ströberg said.
Desmond was declared brain dead two days later, Ströberg said.
Hicks, 28, pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter Monday as part of an agreement with prosecutors.
He was sentenced to eight years in prison followed by two years on probation.
Once released, Hicks also must complete Bibb County’s Veterans Court program as a condition of his probation.
Ströberg said Hicks initially denied knowing his son was ill, but later admitted he threw him into a bassinet after becoming “frustrated” by the child’s crying.
The injuries Desmond suffered couldn’t have been the result of an accident unless he’d “fallen from a height of two stories,” Ströberg said.
Had the case gone to trial, Beberman said he would have argued that Desmond’s death was an accident and his client suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder.
The boy’s head struck a plastic music box attached to the bassinet, likely causing a slow brain bleed, he said.
Children suffering such an injury have been known to cry at first, but then get quiet and go to sleep and show no outward signs that something’s wrong as the brain swells, Beberman said.
There’s a good chance the rib injuries are a result of the CPR attempt, he said.
Hicks has been held at the county jail since his July 16, 2012, arrest, according to jail records.
http://www.macon.com/news/local/crime/article38849418.html
Macon father sentenced to prison in infant son’s 2012 death
Richard Allen Hicks, 28, of Macon, pleaded guilty Monday to involuntary manslaughter in the 2012 death of his infant son, Desmond.
He was sentenced to eight years in prison followed by two years on probation.
By AMY LEIGH WOMACK
A little more than two years after Richard Allen Hicks was injured in a grenade attack in Iraq, he was charged with murder in the death of his 3-month-old son.
Hicks had served about five years in the U.S. Army.
After receiving the purple heart and other awards, he was honorably discharged in July 2011, his lawyer, Mark Beberman said during a Monday hearing in Bibb County Superior Court.
After finding it difficult to land a job, Hicks became the primary caregiver for his three children.
July 14, 2012, the mother of his youngest child, 3-month-old Desmond, came home and found the boy seemingly asleep on Hicks’ chest, said prosecutor Kevin Ströberg.
“She picked up Desmond and he wasn’t responsive. He wasn’t breathing,” Ströberg said.
After an unsuccessful attempt to revive the child by CPR, he was rushed to a local hospital where doctors discovered he had a fractured skull and a brain bleed.
The boy’s ribs also were fractured, Ströberg said.
Desmond was declared brain dead two days later, Ströberg said.
Hicks, 28, pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter Monday as part of an agreement with prosecutors.
He was sentenced to eight years in prison followed by two years on probation.
Once released, Hicks also must complete Bibb County’s Veterans Court program as a condition of his probation.
Ströberg said Hicks initially denied knowing his son was ill, but later admitted he threw him into a bassinet after becoming “frustrated” by the child’s crying.
The injuries Desmond suffered couldn’t have been the result of an accident unless he’d “fallen from a height of two stories,” Ströberg said.
Had the case gone to trial, Beberman said he would have argued that Desmond’s death was an accident and his client suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder.
The boy’s head struck a plastic music box attached to the bassinet, likely causing a slow brain bleed, he said.
Children suffering such an injury have been known to cry at first, but then get quiet and go to sleep and show no outward signs that something’s wrong as the brain swells, Beberman said.
There’s a good chance the rib injuries are a result of the CPR attempt, he said.
Hicks has been held at the county jail since his July 16, 2012, arrest, according to jail records.
Sunday, October 4, 2015
Dad who killed newborn daughter two years ago now convicted of attempted murder of infant boy (Glasgow, Scotland)
Dad is identified as IAN RUDDOCK.
http://www.express.co.uk/news/uk/609363/Glasgow-dad-who-killed-baby-faces-jail
Glasgow dad who killed baby faces jail
A TWISTED father who shook his newborn daughter to death two years ago and later tried to murder another infant is behind bars.
By David Scott
PUBLISHED: 00:01, Fri, Oct 2, 2015
Ian Ruddock killed his five-week old daughter, Olivia, at their family home
Ian Ruddock killed five-week-old Olivia at the family home and two years later attacked the second child.
He was convicted of culpable homicide and attempted murder.
The High Court in Edinburgh heard how the 34-year-old evaded justice and the baby’s fate was only discovered after doctors treating his second victim tipped off police.
The court heard Ruddock left the boy with a fractured skull and ribs – similar to injuries suffered by Olivia. Ruddock, of Shawlands in Glasgow, told the court: “I was trying to get her to wake up. I can just remember holding her and trying to get her to wake up. I don’t remember very much at all. I do not remember much for the next few weeks.”
Asked whether he believed he had harmed his daughter, the father-of-three replied: “I don’t believe for a minute that I’ve caused her death. It’s not even remotely possible.”
Two years after Olivia was killed at a house in Williamwood, East Renfrewshire, Ruddock targeted another child in Glasgow.
He seized the boy – who can’t be identified for legal reasons – inflicting blunt force trauma to his head and body.
Police launched their investigation after hospital staff treated the boy, detectives discovering what happened to Olivia when checking Ruddock’s past.
Consultant radiologist Greg Irwin, who worked at Glasgow’s Yorkhill Children’s Hospital, told the court there was “incontrovertible” evidence Olivia sustained three fractured ribs before her death.
At the time, doctors concluded she had died from bronchial pneumonia.
Mr Irwin said it was a “regular occurrence” for medical staff to misdiagnose fractures.
Ruddock’s wife, Wendy, 37, told the court she “never believed” her husband had done anything wrong after Olivia’s death in March 2011.
Last night, Detective Chief Inspector Maxine Martin said: “It is difficult to understand how anyone could harm a defenceless child, let alone her father, who should have been there to protect her. This was a particularly difficult case due to the passage of time, the ages of the children and complexity of the medical evidence.”
Sentence on Ruddock was deferred and he was remanded in custody.
http://www.express.co.uk/news/uk/609363/Glasgow-dad-who-killed-baby-faces-jail
Glasgow dad who killed baby faces jail
A TWISTED father who shook his newborn daughter to death two years ago and later tried to murder another infant is behind bars.
By David Scott
PUBLISHED: 00:01, Fri, Oct 2, 2015
Ian Ruddock killed his five-week old daughter, Olivia, at their family home
Ian Ruddock killed five-week-old Olivia at the family home and two years later attacked the second child.
He was convicted of culpable homicide and attempted murder.
The High Court in Edinburgh heard how the 34-year-old evaded justice and the baby’s fate was only discovered after doctors treating his second victim tipped off police.
The court heard Ruddock left the boy with a fractured skull and ribs – similar to injuries suffered by Olivia. Ruddock, of Shawlands in Glasgow, told the court: “I was trying to get her to wake up. I can just remember holding her and trying to get her to wake up. I don’t remember very much at all. I do not remember much for the next few weeks.”
Asked whether he believed he had harmed his daughter, the father-of-three replied: “I don’t believe for a minute that I’ve caused her death. It’s not even remotely possible.”
Two years after Olivia was killed at a house in Williamwood, East Renfrewshire, Ruddock targeted another child in Glasgow.
He seized the boy – who can’t be identified for legal reasons – inflicting blunt force trauma to his head and body.
Police launched their investigation after hospital staff treated the boy, detectives discovering what happened to Olivia when checking Ruddock’s past.
Consultant radiologist Greg Irwin, who worked at Glasgow’s Yorkhill Children’s Hospital, told the court there was “incontrovertible” evidence Olivia sustained three fractured ribs before her death.
At the time, doctors concluded she had died from bronchial pneumonia.
Mr Irwin said it was a “regular occurrence” for medical staff to misdiagnose fractures.
Ruddock’s wife, Wendy, 37, told the court she “never believed” her husband had done anything wrong after Olivia’s death in March 2011.
Last night, Detective Chief Inspector Maxine Martin said: “It is difficult to understand how anyone could harm a defenceless child, let alone her father, who should have been there to protect her. This was a particularly difficult case due to the passage of time, the ages of the children and complexity of the medical evidence.”
Sentence on Ruddock was deferred and he was remanded in custody.
Dad charged with criminal homicide in murder of 5-week-old daughter; called infant "psycho baby" (Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania)
Males can't cope with normal infantile crying. We see it again and again.
Dad is identified as JOSEPH SWIDORSKY.
http://pittsburgh.cbslocal.com/2015/10/01/west-view-father-arrested-in-death-of-baby-daughter/
Cops: Father Charged In Death Of Infant Called Child A ‘Psycho Baby’
October 1, 2015 10:06 PM
Lisa Washington
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) – Police arrested 30-year-old Joseph Swidorsky Thursday. He’s charged with criminal homicide and endangering the welfare of children, in the death of his five-week-old daughter, Braelyn.
According to the criminal complaint, West View Police were called to Swidorsky’s home on June 15, 2015, for the report of an unresponsive child. Swidorsky told police he was bathing his daughter and that she was crying so hard that she stopped breathing.
The mother told police, she had asked Swidorsky to bathe Braelyn and she returned to the bathroom to find the infant unresponsive and turning blue.
The baby was taken to UPMC Children’s Hospital, where she later died.
An autopsy revealed the child died of blunt force trauma to the head – specifically a subdural hematoma and a fractured skull.
A witness told police that during a conversation with Swidorsky while at the hospital, he gave four different versions of what might have happened to baby Braelyn. None of which were consistent with her cause of death.
Another witness reported overhearing Swidorsky say, “Braelyn is a psycho baby and does nothing but cry all the time.”
Bail was denied for Swidorsky. His preliminary hearing is scheduled for Oct. 16.
Dad is identified as JOSEPH SWIDORSKY.
http://pittsburgh.cbslocal.com/2015/10/01/west-view-father-arrested-in-death-of-baby-daughter/
Cops: Father Charged In Death Of Infant Called Child A ‘Psycho Baby’
October 1, 2015 10:06 PM
Lisa Washington
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) – Police arrested 30-year-old Joseph Swidorsky Thursday. He’s charged with criminal homicide and endangering the welfare of children, in the death of his five-week-old daughter, Braelyn.
According to the criminal complaint, West View Police were called to Swidorsky’s home on June 15, 2015, for the report of an unresponsive child. Swidorsky told police he was bathing his daughter and that she was crying so hard that she stopped breathing.
The mother told police, she had asked Swidorsky to bathe Braelyn and she returned to the bathroom to find the infant unresponsive and turning blue.
The baby was taken to UPMC Children’s Hospital, where she later died.
An autopsy revealed the child died of blunt force trauma to the head – specifically a subdural hematoma and a fractured skull.
A witness told police that during a conversation with Swidorsky while at the hospital, he gave four different versions of what might have happened to baby Braelyn. None of which were consistent with her cause of death.
Another witness reported overhearing Swidorsky say, “Braelyn is a psycho baby and does nothing but cry all the time.”
Bail was denied for Swidorsky. His preliminary hearing is scheduled for Oct. 16.
Saturday, September 12, 2015
Dad charged with felony murder in death of 10-week-old son (Lawrenceville, Georgia)
Poor mom. She's the mother of 10-week-old baby, forced to work the night shift. This is inhumane, the way mothers and infants are treated. Inadequate or non-existent paid maternity leaves. Forced to rely on violent men to do infant caregiving. And this is what happens so often....
Dad is identified as KELVIN ODOM.
http://www.gwinnettdailypost.com/news/2015/sep/10/lawrenceville-father-charged-with-murder-in/
Lawrenceville father charged with murder in infant’s death
By Joshua Sharpe Thursday, September 10, 2015 Gwinnett Daily Post
Police are now calling 10-week-old Justice Odom’s death a murder.
They have charged his father, Kelvin Odom, 50, of Lawrenceville with felony murder, on top of the cruelty to children count he was initially given before the child died Sunday. The decision came after the medical examiner’s office found that the baby’s head injuries weren’t “consistent with the story the suspect has given us,” said Cpl. Michele Pihera, spokeswoman for Gwinnett County police.
The story is that the child fell off the couch last Wednesday morning.
Some are coming to the defense of Odom, who is a boxing instructor.
Andrea Muresan, who said she is a sergeant in the U.S. Army, told the Daily Post in an email she has known the man through boxing for more than six years and that he “is not only a great guy, but a great father.”
“We are very close and all I can say coach loves his children more than anything in this world. He is a positive face to the community,” she said. “I’m not here to take sides because a 10-week-old just passed away due to serious head injuries, and I have a 10-week-old myself…”
Yet, she said she can’t imagine Odom is capable of hurting the boy. # Warrants against Odom, however, say he acted maliciously toward the infant.
Police and firefighters were called to the Odom apartment at the Water Vista complex off Club Drive last Wednesday morning at about 4:30 a.m. in response to a call saying Justice wasn’t breathing. By the time they arrived, the child was reportedly breathing and appeared normal.
Odom declined to send him to the hospital, police said.
At about 7:40 a.m., the child’s mother came home from work and noticed the child having “breathing problems and altered color,” police said.
Later, at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, police reportedly learned that Justice had a fractured skull and closed head trauma.
Odom, with a tattoo of a boxing glove and “KO” on his bicep, was booked into the Gwinnett County jail last Thursday morning at 3 a.m and remains held without bond.
Dad is identified as KELVIN ODOM.
http://www.gwinnettdailypost.com/news/2015/sep/10/lawrenceville-father-charged-with-murder-in/
Lawrenceville father charged with murder in infant’s death
By Joshua Sharpe Thursday, September 10, 2015 Gwinnett Daily Post
Police are now calling 10-week-old Justice Odom’s death a murder.
They have charged his father, Kelvin Odom, 50, of Lawrenceville with felony murder, on top of the cruelty to children count he was initially given before the child died Sunday. The decision came after the medical examiner’s office found that the baby’s head injuries weren’t “consistent with the story the suspect has given us,” said Cpl. Michele Pihera, spokeswoman for Gwinnett County police.
The story is that the child fell off the couch last Wednesday morning.
Some are coming to the defense of Odom, who is a boxing instructor.
Andrea Muresan, who said she is a sergeant in the U.S. Army, told the Daily Post in an email she has known the man through boxing for more than six years and that he “is not only a great guy, but a great father.”
“We are very close and all I can say coach loves his children more than anything in this world. He is a positive face to the community,” she said. “I’m not here to take sides because a 10-week-old just passed away due to serious head injuries, and I have a 10-week-old myself…”
Yet, she said she can’t imagine Odom is capable of hurting the boy. # Warrants against Odom, however, say he acted maliciously toward the infant.
Police and firefighters were called to the Odom apartment at the Water Vista complex off Club Drive last Wednesday morning at about 4:30 a.m. in response to a call saying Justice wasn’t breathing. By the time they arrived, the child was reportedly breathing and appeared normal.
Odom declined to send him to the hospital, police said.
At about 7:40 a.m., the child’s mother came home from work and noticed the child having “breathing problems and altered color,” police said.
Later, at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, police reportedly learned that Justice had a fractured skull and closed head trauma.
Odom, with a tattoo of a boxing glove and “KO” on his bicep, was booked into the Gwinnett County jail last Thursday morning at 3 a.m and remains held without bond.
Monday, September 7, 2015
Dad charged with throwing 6-month-old daughter into wall and killing her (Johnson County, Indiana)
Dad is identified as CHRISTOPHER POTTS.
http://wishtv.com/2015/09/05/father-arrested-in-death-of-6-month-old-girl/
Father arrested in death of 6-month-old girl
Jessica Lauren Published: September 5, 2015, 10:53 pm Updated: September 5, 2015, 11:23 pm
JOHNSON COUNTY, Ind. (WISH) — A Johnson County family is mourning the loss of 6-month-old Felicity Anderson.
Her family said the baby suffered a skull fracture after her father threw her up against the wall because she wouldn’t stop crying.
The Franklin Police Department said the incident happened Thursday afternoon.
They arrested and charged the girl’s father, 20-year-old Christopher Potts, with battery resulting in death.
He is currently in the Johnson County Jail with bond set at $30,000.00. Felicity’s grandmother, Danielle Anderson, said investigators told her Potts tried to give the child CPR and a bottle after throwing her against the wall.
“He couldn’t handle her crying during nap time. That’s why he hurt her,” said Felicity’s grandmother, Danielle Anderson.
Felicity’s mother, 18-year-old Annabelle Anderson, declined to comment.
http://wishtv.com/2015/09/05/father-arrested-in-death-of-6-month-old-girl/
Father arrested in death of 6-month-old girl
Jessica Lauren Published: September 5, 2015, 10:53 pm Updated: September 5, 2015, 11:23 pm
JOHNSON COUNTY, Ind. (WISH) — A Johnson County family is mourning the loss of 6-month-old Felicity Anderson.
Her family said the baby suffered a skull fracture after her father threw her up against the wall because she wouldn’t stop crying.
The Franklin Police Department said the incident happened Thursday afternoon.
They arrested and charged the girl’s father, 20-year-old Christopher Potts, with battery resulting in death.
He is currently in the Johnson County Jail with bond set at $30,000.00. Felicity’s grandmother, Danielle Anderson, said investigators told her Potts tried to give the child CPR and a bottle after throwing her against the wall.
“He couldn’t handle her crying during nap time. That’s why he hurt her,” said Felicity’s grandmother, Danielle Anderson.
Felicity’s mother, 18-year-old Annabelle Anderson, declined to comment.
Sunday, September 6, 2015
Separated dad charged with assaulting infant daughter (Union Township, Pennsylvania)
It is widely known that post-marital separation is the most dangerous time for women and children. And yet violent men are continually allowed child access, even to the most vulnerable infants and toddlers. Too often the results are just like this.
Dad is identified as KIM PAUL SANKEY.
http://www.ncnewsonline.com/news/local_news/father-waives-abuse-charges-to-court/article_c869095e-0a55-599b-a8f6-9161380cb24f.html
Father waives abuse charges to court
Posted: Wednesday, September 2, 2015 7:15 am
All charges against a Union Township man arrested for abusing his infant daughter have been waived to court.
Kim Paul Sankey, 36, of 15 Oakwood Ave., was charged by Union Township police with aggravated and simple assault, recklessly endangering another person and endangering the welfare of children following a May 13 incident. He remains free on $50,000 bond. He is represented by attorney David J. Shrager of Pittsburgh.
His preliminary hearing was scheduled in Central Court on Tuesday before District Judge Jerry Cartwright. His formal arraignment in Lawrence County Common Pleas Court is scheduled for Nov . 3.
According to court documents, Sankey, who is separated from his wife, was staying at their Oakwood Avenue home on May 12 to 14 caring for their infant daughter and 2-year-old son while the mother was away.
According to a police report, on the morning of May 13 he notified his wife that their daughter had a black eye and bruising on the head and knee. The child was taken to a local doctor then transferred to Children's Hospital in Pittsburgh. There, doctors told a Children and Youth Services case worker the child had a fractured skull and bleeding in the brain which they attributed to child abuse.
Police said Sankey told them he had fallen asleep while standing up and feeding his daughter a bottle about 2 a.m. on May 13. He said the infant fell from his arms. However, doctors at Children's Hospital said the baby's injuries were inconsistent with that explanation.
Union Township police filed charges after determining the injuries were sustained while the infant was in Sankey's care, and no one else was in the house at the time the injuries were inflicted.
Dad is identified as KIM PAUL SANKEY.
http://www.ncnewsonline.com/news/local_news/father-waives-abuse-charges-to-court/article_c869095e-0a55-599b-a8f6-9161380cb24f.html
Father waives abuse charges to court
Posted: Wednesday, September 2, 2015 7:15 am
All charges against a Union Township man arrested for abusing his infant daughter have been waived to court.
Kim Paul Sankey, 36, of 15 Oakwood Ave., was charged by Union Township police with aggravated and simple assault, recklessly endangering another person and endangering the welfare of children following a May 13 incident. He remains free on $50,000 bond. He is represented by attorney David J. Shrager of Pittsburgh.
His preliminary hearing was scheduled in Central Court on Tuesday before District Judge Jerry Cartwright. His formal arraignment in Lawrence County Common Pleas Court is scheduled for Nov . 3.
According to court documents, Sankey, who is separated from his wife, was staying at their Oakwood Avenue home on May 12 to 14 caring for their infant daughter and 2-year-old son while the mother was away.
According to a police report, on the morning of May 13 he notified his wife that their daughter had a black eye and bruising on the head and knee. The child was taken to a local doctor then transferred to Children's Hospital in Pittsburgh. There, doctors told a Children and Youth Services case worker the child had a fractured skull and bleeding in the brain which they attributed to child abuse.
Police said Sankey told them he had fallen asleep while standing up and feeding his daughter a bottle about 2 a.m. on May 13. He said the infant fell from his arms. However, doctors at Children's Hospital said the baby's injuries were inconsistent with that explanation.
Union Township police filed charges after determining the injuries were sustained while the infant was in Sankey's care, and no one else was in the house at the time the injuries were inflicted.
Dad charged with murder in death of 2-month-old daughter (Hamilton, Ohio)
Dad identified as PHILIP CUNNINGHAM.
http://www.news-herald.com/general-news/20150903/father-charged-with-murder-in-baby-daughters-death-in-ohio
Father charged with murder in baby daughter's death in Ohio
Metro Creative Connection
By Associated Press
Posted: 09/03/15, 1:39 PM EDT | Updated: 2 days ago
HAMILTON (AP) — The father of a 2-month-old baby girl who police say was shaken and died two days later has been indicted on charges of murder and child endangering in southwest Ohio.
Court documents show 27-year-old Phillip Cunningham of Hamilton was indicted Wednesday by a Butler County grand jury in the July death. Court records don’t list an attorney for Cunningham.
The Hamilton-Middletown Journal-News reports that a police detective testified at a court hearing that Cunningham told him he shook the infant for more than a minute because she wouldn’t stop crying. She died later at an area hospital.
A deputy coroner testified the baby had two skull fractures and retinal hemorrhaging consistent with a shaking motion and the head hitting a hard surface. She ruled the death a homicide.
http://www.news-herald.com/general-news/20150903/father-charged-with-murder-in-baby-daughters-death-in-ohio
Father charged with murder in baby daughter's death in Ohio
Metro Creative Connection
By Associated Press
Posted: 09/03/15, 1:39 PM EDT | Updated: 2 days ago
HAMILTON (AP) — The father of a 2-month-old baby girl who police say was shaken and died two days later has been indicted on charges of murder and child endangering in southwest Ohio.
Court documents show 27-year-old Phillip Cunningham of Hamilton was indicted Wednesday by a Butler County grand jury in the July death. Court records don’t list an attorney for Cunningham.
The Hamilton-Middletown Journal-News reports that a police detective testified at a court hearing that Cunningham told him he shook the infant for more than a minute because she wouldn’t stop crying. She died later at an area hospital.
A deputy coroner testified the baby had two skull fractures and retinal hemorrhaging consistent with a shaking motion and the head hitting a hard surface. She ruled the death a homicide.
Thursday, August 27, 2015
Dad to go on trial for blinding 4-month-old daughter (Tulsa, Oklahoma)
Dad is identified as CORNELIUS SHANKLIN.
http://www.newson6.com/story/29887864/oklahoma-father-accused-of-shaking-baby-to-blindness-will-stand-trial
Oklahoma Father Accused Of Shaking Baby To Blindness Will Stand Trial
Posted: Aug 26, 2015 6:54 PM EST Updated: Aug 26, 2015 7:53 PM EST
Lori Fullbright, News On 6
TULSA, Oklahoma - A Tulsa man must stand trial for child abuse after prosecutors say he shook his 4-month-old daughter so hard, she’s now blind.
A detective and a doctor testified against Cornelius Shanklin on Wednesday, and the judge ruled there's enough evidence for him to go to trial.
About a dozen members of the baby’s family showed up to support the case in court and they all wore matching T-shirts that say “Justice for MaAliyah."
MaAliyah's family members filled two rows inside the courtroom as they listened to the testimony of a child crisis detective and a pediatrician who specializes in abuse cases.
MaAliyah's mother, Mandy, waited outside the courtroom doors, ready to testify if needed against her husband.
The detective says Shanklin told police he was watching his daughter and toddler son the night MaAliyah was injured, and he could tell she had a skull fracture and didn't look right and wouldn't stop crying.
He told police he was upstairs and thought maybe she rolled off her pillow and hit her head or their son did something to her.
A pediatrician says MaAliyah did have a skull fracture in the back of her head, bleeding in her brain and both her retinas were detached.
She testified someone would have to violently shake a baby and hit her head on something to cause those injuries.
She testified a toddler isn't strong enough or coordinated enough to shake a baby that hard, and even if a toddler dropped the baby, it would only cause bruising, not those injuries.
She also testified the baby could not at that age roll over or crawl, so couldn't cause the injuries herself.
She told the judge MaAliyah likely will be blind the rest of her life.
"She's innocent,” the pediatrician said. “She couldn't protect herself."
As it turned out, MaAliyah's mother was not called to testify, and she was relieved to learn the judge ordered her husband to stand trial.
In addition to the child abuse charge, a charge of child neglect also was added.
Prosecutors argued Shanklin did not get medical help for MaAliyah in a timely manner.
http://www.newson6.com/story/29887864/oklahoma-father-accused-of-shaking-baby-to-blindness-will-stand-trial
Oklahoma Father Accused Of Shaking Baby To Blindness Will Stand Trial
Posted: Aug 26, 2015 6:54 PM EST Updated: Aug 26, 2015 7:53 PM EST
Lori Fullbright, News On 6
TULSA, Oklahoma - A Tulsa man must stand trial for child abuse after prosecutors say he shook his 4-month-old daughter so hard, she’s now blind.
A detective and a doctor testified against Cornelius Shanklin on Wednesday, and the judge ruled there's enough evidence for him to go to trial.
About a dozen members of the baby’s family showed up to support the case in court and they all wore matching T-shirts that say “Justice for MaAliyah."
MaAliyah's family members filled two rows inside the courtroom as they listened to the testimony of a child crisis detective and a pediatrician who specializes in abuse cases.
MaAliyah's mother, Mandy, waited outside the courtroom doors, ready to testify if needed against her husband.
The detective says Shanklin told police he was watching his daughter and toddler son the night MaAliyah was injured, and he could tell she had a skull fracture and didn't look right and wouldn't stop crying.
He told police he was upstairs and thought maybe she rolled off her pillow and hit her head or their son did something to her.
A pediatrician says MaAliyah did have a skull fracture in the back of her head, bleeding in her brain and both her retinas were detached.
She testified someone would have to violently shake a baby and hit her head on something to cause those injuries.
She testified a toddler isn't strong enough or coordinated enough to shake a baby that hard, and even if a toddler dropped the baby, it would only cause bruising, not those injuries.
She also testified the baby could not at that age roll over or crawl, so couldn't cause the injuries herself.
She told the judge MaAliyah likely will be blind the rest of her life.
"She's innocent,” the pediatrician said. “She couldn't protect herself."
As it turned out, MaAliyah's mother was not called to testify, and she was relieved to learn the judge ordered her husband to stand trial.
In addition to the child abuse charge, a charge of child neglect also was added.
Prosecutors argued Shanklin did not get medical help for MaAliyah in a timely manner.
Tuesday, August 25, 2015
Dad charged with abusing 28-day-old baby; baby has skull fracture, multiple brain bleeds, fractures (Edmond, Oklahoma)
Dad is identified as JOHNATHAN MCKEE.
http://www.news9.com/story/29869650/edmond-father-accused-of-abusing-28-day-old-child
Edmond Father Accused Of Abusing 28-Day-Old Child
Posted: Aug 24, 2015 7:38 PM EST Updated: Aug 24, 2015 7:38 PM EST
By Dana Hertneky, News 9
EDMOND, Oklahoma - A 28-day-old baby is rushed to the hospital with severe injuries including a skull fracture and brain bleed.
This weekend, Edmond police arrested his father who is accused of abusing him.
Johnathan McKee was booked into the Oklahoma County jail Saturday night after investigators concluded he was responsible for the severe abuse of his 4-week-old baby.
Just before 6 a.m. August 1, emergency crews were called to the Edmond home on Tambos Trail near 2nd Street and Interstate 35.
“My son is a newborn and he is gurgling blood and spitting up blood and he’s not breathing right,” McKee told a dispatcher.
According to court papers the infant was rushed to OU Medical Center where doctors determined he had "multiple brain bleeds, skull fracture, multiple rib fractures and retinal hemorrhages, all indicative of child abuse."
Neither the baby's parents nor McKee's parents, who the couple was living with, would talk to investigators when they arrived at the hospital.
“We went immediately there and tried to meet with the mother and father of the infant and the grandparents of the infant and were told once we got to the hospital they had retained an attorney and were not going to cooperate with us,” Edmond police spokeswoman Jennifer Monroe said. “He has extensive injuries that will take a lifetime to recover from."
McKee has since bonded out of jail.
He was being held on a $10,000 bond.
http://www.news9.com/story/29869650/edmond-father-accused-of-abusing-28-day-old-child
Edmond Father Accused Of Abusing 28-Day-Old Child
Posted: Aug 24, 2015 7:38 PM EST Updated: Aug 24, 2015 7:38 PM EST
By Dana Hertneky, News 9
EDMOND, Oklahoma - A 28-day-old baby is rushed to the hospital with severe injuries including a skull fracture and brain bleed.
This weekend, Edmond police arrested his father who is accused of abusing him.
Johnathan McKee was booked into the Oklahoma County jail Saturday night after investigators concluded he was responsible for the severe abuse of his 4-week-old baby.
Just before 6 a.m. August 1, emergency crews were called to the Edmond home on Tambos Trail near 2nd Street and Interstate 35.
“My son is a newborn and he is gurgling blood and spitting up blood and he’s not breathing right,” McKee told a dispatcher.
According to court papers the infant was rushed to OU Medical Center where doctors determined he had "multiple brain bleeds, skull fracture, multiple rib fractures and retinal hemorrhages, all indicative of child abuse."
Neither the baby's parents nor McKee's parents, who the couple was living with, would talk to investigators when they arrived at the hospital.
“We went immediately there and tried to meet with the mother and father of the infant and the grandparents of the infant and were told once we got to the hospital they had retained an attorney and were not going to cooperate with us,” Edmond police spokeswoman Jennifer Monroe said. “He has extensive injuries that will take a lifetime to recover from."
McKee has since bonded out of jail.
He was being held on a $10,000 bond.
Sunday, August 16, 2015
Dad charged with 1st-degree murder in death of 3-month-old daughter (Baton Rouge, Louisiana)
Dad is identified as JOHN WILLIAM HOPE.
http://theadvocate.com/news/13151635-123/baton-rouge-police-detectives-accuse
Baton Rouge police detectives accuse father of first-degree murder in the death of 3-month-old daughter
Advocate staff report
Aug. 12, 2015
The father of a 3-month-old baby who died Saturday from blunt-force trauma has been booked on a count of murder, Baton Rouge police said Tuesday.
Police detectives upgraded the count filed against John William Hope, 28, from second-degree cruelty to a juvenile to first-degree murder in the death of his daughter, Josephine Hope, said Cpl. Don Coppola, a police spokesman.
An autopsy conducted Monday resulted in East Baton Rouge Parish Coroner Dr. Beau Clark determining the baby’s death was a homicide.
The staff at Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center contacted police Wednesday morning to report that Hope had brought in Josephine with life-threatening injuries — three skull fractures, multiple rib fractures, face and neck bruising, a bloody mouth and bloodshot eyes, according to police reports.
The baby was in critical condition Friday with no brain activity. She died Saturday.
Hope and the baby’s mother, Christine Hope, told doctors their daughter had fallen off a changing table, but emergency room staff said the child’s injuries did not align with the parents’ story, the report says.
“Injuries around the (child’s) neck were consistent with someone grabbing the baby by the neck,” the report says.
The father told police he left the baby on a changing table about 8 a.m. Wednesday while going to get a bottle. After he left the room, he heard a crash and walked back in to find Josephine on the floor, he told police.
He told Christine Hope the same story, and the couple took the baby to the hospital.
Hope also told police a knot on the baby’s head was caused earlier that morning when the baby head-butted him, but he had no explanation for the marks around her neck, the report says. Christine Hope said Josephine had no marks on her before going to sleep the night before.
Hope could face formal murder charges in her death, District Attorney Hillar Moore III said Monday, adding the decision to charge Hope will be left up to a grand jury.
“I anticipate second-degree murder would be an appropriate charge,” he said. “It’ll be some time before it gets to the grand jury because we have other cases before it.”
http://theadvocate.com/news/13151635-123/baton-rouge-police-detectives-accuse
Baton Rouge police detectives accuse father of first-degree murder in the death of 3-month-old daughter
Advocate staff report
Aug. 12, 2015
The father of a 3-month-old baby who died Saturday from blunt-force trauma has been booked on a count of murder, Baton Rouge police said Tuesday.
Police detectives upgraded the count filed against John William Hope, 28, from second-degree cruelty to a juvenile to first-degree murder in the death of his daughter, Josephine Hope, said Cpl. Don Coppola, a police spokesman.
An autopsy conducted Monday resulted in East Baton Rouge Parish Coroner Dr. Beau Clark determining the baby’s death was a homicide.
The staff at Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center contacted police Wednesday morning to report that Hope had brought in Josephine with life-threatening injuries — three skull fractures, multiple rib fractures, face and neck bruising, a bloody mouth and bloodshot eyes, according to police reports.
The baby was in critical condition Friday with no brain activity. She died Saturday.
Hope and the baby’s mother, Christine Hope, told doctors their daughter had fallen off a changing table, but emergency room staff said the child’s injuries did not align with the parents’ story, the report says.
“Injuries around the (child’s) neck were consistent with someone grabbing the baby by the neck,” the report says.
The father told police he left the baby on a changing table about 8 a.m. Wednesday while going to get a bottle. After he left the room, he heard a crash and walked back in to find Josephine on the floor, he told police.
He told Christine Hope the same story, and the couple took the baby to the hospital.
Hope also told police a knot on the baby’s head was caused earlier that morning when the baby head-butted him, but he had no explanation for the marks around her neck, the report says. Christine Hope said Josephine had no marks on her before going to sleep the night before.
Hope could face formal murder charges in her death, District Attorney Hillar Moore III said Monday, adding the decision to charge Hope will be left up to a grand jury.
“I anticipate second-degree murder would be an appropriate charge,” he said. “It’ll be some time before it gets to the grand jury because we have other cases before it.”
Thursday, August 13, 2015
Killer dad had extensive history of domestic violence, child abuse, assault (Adelaide, Australia)
And despite all that, UNNAMED DAD was allowed to be "involved" with the new baby anyway...with predictable results.
http://www.skynews.com.au/news/national/2015/08/13/inquest-shows-ebony-s-father-s-violent-past.html
Inquest shows Ebony's father's violent past
Updated: 5:47 pm, Thursday, 13 August 2015
An inquest has heard that the father of a four-month-old baby, who died from his abuse, had a history of domestic violence and juvenile crime.
Baby Ebony died from horrific injuries in Adelaide in 2011 after her mother, then 17, and father moved to South Australia from NSW.
The inquest into Ebony's death has been told the father, who was jailed in SA for criminal neglect, had another child with a different woman in 2008 when he was 16.
That boy was later removed from the family and taken to hospital after a visit from a NSW child protection services.
'There were concerns regarding the level of care (the boy) was getting, and possibly alcohol and drug use,' NSW child protection worker Jennifer Smith told Adelaide Coroners Court on Thursday.
Counsel assisting Naomi Kereru said the father had an extensive child protection history and a record of juvenile crime including common assault.
Another report detailed the teenage father's drug use and neglect for his first child. 'It is reported (the parents) smoked bongs around the child,' Ms Kereru said.
Baby Ebony suffered multiple skull fractures and dozens of other fractures to her ribs, collarbone, leg, fingers and toes during her short life.
Her mother, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was a ward of the state in NSW when she fell pregnant and moved to Adelaide, but the guardianship was not transferred.
The inquest previously heard the family had completely disengaged from SA child protection services at the time of Ebony's death.
AAP
http://www.skynews.com.au/news/national/2015/08/13/inquest-shows-ebony-s-father-s-violent-past.html
Inquest shows Ebony's father's violent past
Updated: 5:47 pm, Thursday, 13 August 2015
An inquest has heard that the father of a four-month-old baby, who died from his abuse, had a history of domestic violence and juvenile crime.
Baby Ebony died from horrific injuries in Adelaide in 2011 after her mother, then 17, and father moved to South Australia from NSW.
The inquest into Ebony's death has been told the father, who was jailed in SA for criminal neglect, had another child with a different woman in 2008 when he was 16.
That boy was later removed from the family and taken to hospital after a visit from a NSW child protection services.
'There were concerns regarding the level of care (the boy) was getting, and possibly alcohol and drug use,' NSW child protection worker Jennifer Smith told Adelaide Coroners Court on Thursday.
Counsel assisting Naomi Kereru said the father had an extensive child protection history and a record of juvenile crime including common assault.
Another report detailed the teenage father's drug use and neglect for his first child. 'It is reported (the parents) smoked bongs around the child,' Ms Kereru said.
Baby Ebony suffered multiple skull fractures and dozens of other fractures to her ribs, collarbone, leg, fingers and toes during her short life.
Her mother, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was a ward of the state in NSW when she fell pregnant and moved to Adelaide, but the guardianship was not transferred.
The inquest previously heard the family had completely disengaged from SA child protection services at the time of Ebony's death.
AAP
Sunday, August 9, 2015
Dad to be charged with murder in death of 3-month-old daughter (Baton Rouge, Louisiana)
Dad is identified as JOHN WILLIAM HOPE.
http://theadvocate.com/news/police/13129516-123/baton-rouge-infant-dies-of
Baton Rouge infant dies of injuries; father faces possible murder charges
by danielle maddox| Aug. 09, 2015
An infant brought to the hospital Wednesday suffering from blunt force trauma has died, and the child’s father faces possible murder charges, authorities said Saturday.
East Baton Rouge Parish Coroner Dr. Beau Clark confirmed the child’s death on Saturday.
District Attorney Hillar Moore III said he anticipates the father will be charged with murder.
Staff working at Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center called police about 10:45 a.m. Wednesday to report that John William Hope had brought in his 3-month-old child with life-threatening injuries — three skull fractures, multiple rib fractures, face and neck bruising, a bloody mouth and blood-shot eyes, according to police reports.
Hope and the baby’s mother, Christine Hope, told doctors their daughter had fallen off a changing table, but emergency room staff said the child’s injuries did not align with the parents’ story, the report says.
The staff said the baby’s injuries were not consistent with a fall. “Injuries around the (child’s) neck were consistent with someone grabbing the baby by the neck,” the report says.
John Hope was booked into East Baton Rouge Parish Prison on a count of second-degree cruelty to a juvenile after police were notified of the child’s injuries.
Clark said his office will conduct an autopsy of the child on Monday.
http://theadvocate.com/news/police/13129516-123/baton-rouge-infant-dies-of
Baton Rouge infant dies of injuries; father faces possible murder charges
by danielle maddox| Aug. 09, 2015
An infant brought to the hospital Wednesday suffering from blunt force trauma has died, and the child’s father faces possible murder charges, authorities said Saturday.
East Baton Rouge Parish Coroner Dr. Beau Clark confirmed the child’s death on Saturday.
District Attorney Hillar Moore III said he anticipates the father will be charged with murder.
Staff working at Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center called police about 10:45 a.m. Wednesday to report that John William Hope had brought in his 3-month-old child with life-threatening injuries — three skull fractures, multiple rib fractures, face and neck bruising, a bloody mouth and blood-shot eyes, according to police reports.
Hope and the baby’s mother, Christine Hope, told doctors their daughter had fallen off a changing table, but emergency room staff said the child’s injuries did not align with the parents’ story, the report says.
The staff said the baby’s injuries were not consistent with a fall. “Injuries around the (child’s) neck were consistent with someone grabbing the baby by the neck,” the report says.
John Hope was booked into East Baton Rouge Parish Prison on a count of second-degree cruelty to a juvenile after police were notified of the child’s injuries.
Clark said his office will conduct an autopsy of the child on Monday.
Tuesday, July 21, 2015
Dad with SOLE CUSTODY smashes skull of 7-week-old son into wall; what judge gave this father custody? (Butler County, Pennsylvania)
What judge thought it was okay to strip this newborn from his mother's custody and hand him over to his abusive, volatile, and easily "frustrated" father?
Are we surprised that this POS's parents are enablers who make excuses for him, even as he tries to blame them for his actions?
Dad is identified as TYLER DUDDY.
Notice that Mom has been erased from this story completely....
http://www.inquisitr.com/2258136/seven-week-old-baby-left-with-fractured-skull-after-pennsylvania-father-smashed-head-into-wall-charges-filed/
Seven-Week-Old Baby Left With Fractured Skull After Pennsylvania Father Smashed His Head Into Wall, Charges Filed
The father of a seven-week-old baby is facing child abuse charges after the baby was rushed to the hospital with a skull fracture, bleeding in the brain, and facial bruising, CBS Pittsburgh reports.
On June 20, an infant baby named Callen, of Butler Township, was rushed to the Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh where doctors say he was in critical condition upon arrival. His 25-year-old father, Tyler Duddy — who has sole custody of the infant – gave investigators inconsistent stories about what happened to his son. One including that Callen sustained injuries to his head due to movements in his bassinet.
He also stated that his son’s mother and her father were caring for him on June 19 and he could have been injured in their care. However, several weeks later, during questioning, Duddy finally admitted the truth, saying that out of frustration and anger, he rammed his infant son’s head into his bedroom wall in the apartment they both shared at Old Plank Estates.
He told police that he initially lied about abusing his son because “he was scared.”
“Mr. Duddy admitted to an incident at the apartment where the child’s head was struck off a wall,” Detective Thomas Vensel stated. “This is sad what happened to the baby. I’m a father myself, but we have to do what’s right, and that’s why we arrested him.”
On Tuesday, Duddy was arrested on several child abuse charges.
According to WPXI, doctors believe the child may develop long-term health issues as a result of his head injuries. They will monitor the child’s health over the years as they won’t know for certain until then.
“I can’t be angry or mad. I know that Tyler was frustrated, but that doesn’t mean what he did was right,” Callen’s grandfather stated.
He also told reporters that since the horrifying incident, Callen’s health has improved and he’s gained two pounds. However, he had to be put up for adoption as his mother is unable to care for him. It was reported that she is currently hospitalized for “unspecified reasons.”
Tyler Duddy was charged with aggravated assault and endangering the welfare of children. He is currently being held at the Butler County jail with a $75,000 bond.
Are we surprised that this POS's parents are enablers who make excuses for him, even as he tries to blame them for his actions?
Dad is identified as TYLER DUDDY.
Notice that Mom has been erased from this story completely....
http://www.inquisitr.com/2258136/seven-week-old-baby-left-with-fractured-skull-after-pennsylvania-father-smashed-head-into-wall-charges-filed/
Seven-Week-Old Baby Left With Fractured Skull After Pennsylvania Father Smashed His Head Into Wall, Charges Filed
The father of a seven-week-old baby is facing child abuse charges after the baby was rushed to the hospital with a skull fracture, bleeding in the brain, and facial bruising, CBS Pittsburgh reports.
On June 20, an infant baby named Callen, of Butler Township, was rushed to the Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh where doctors say he was in critical condition upon arrival. His 25-year-old father, Tyler Duddy — who has sole custody of the infant – gave investigators inconsistent stories about what happened to his son. One including that Callen sustained injuries to his head due to movements in his bassinet.
He also stated that his son’s mother and her father were caring for him on June 19 and he could have been injured in their care. However, several weeks later, during questioning, Duddy finally admitted the truth, saying that out of frustration and anger, he rammed his infant son’s head into his bedroom wall in the apartment they both shared at Old Plank Estates.
He told police that he initially lied about abusing his son because “he was scared.”
“Mr. Duddy admitted to an incident at the apartment where the child’s head was struck off a wall,” Detective Thomas Vensel stated. “This is sad what happened to the baby. I’m a father myself, but we have to do what’s right, and that’s why we arrested him.”
On Tuesday, Duddy was arrested on several child abuse charges.
According to WPXI, doctors believe the child may develop long-term health issues as a result of his head injuries. They will monitor the child’s health over the years as they won’t know for certain until then.
“I can’t be angry or mad. I know that Tyler was frustrated, but that doesn’t mean what he did was right,” Callen’s grandfather stated.
He also told reporters that since the horrifying incident, Callen’s health has improved and he’s gained two pounds. However, he had to be put up for adoption as his mother is unable to care for him. It was reported that she is currently hospitalized for “unspecified reasons.”
Tyler Duddy was charged with aggravated assault and endangering the welfare of children. He is currently being held at the Butler County jail with a $75,000 bond.
Monday, June 29, 2015
Dad arrested for abuse of 11-week-old daughter; baby in critical condition (Douglas, Georgia)
Dad is identified as FERRIS BATTLE.
http://www.wfxl.com/news/story.aspx?id=1223354
Father charged for injuring 11-week-old daughter
by Sasha Lenninger Posted: 06.27.2015 at 6:57 PM
Sasha Lenninger is a Reporter/Producer for Good Day.
The Douglas Police Department said last Saturday they were called about a possible child abuse case.
DOUGLAS, GA. -- The Douglas Police Department said last Saturday they were called about a possible child abuse case.
An 11-week-old had two fractures to her skull, multiple fractured ribs and a fractured leg. The child was taken to a hospital in Jacksonville where she remains in critical condition.
Doctors ruled her injures non-accidental and officials discovered she was with her father, 28-year-old Ferris Battle, when the injures happened.
Battle was arrested Friday and has been charged with aggravated battery (family violence) and cruelty to children in the first degree.
Battle is at the Duval County Sheriff’s Office awaiting extradition back to Douglas.
Anyone with information is asked to call the Douglas Police Department at 912-384-2222 or leave a tip at 912-260-3600.
http://www.wfxl.com/news/story.aspx?id=1223354
Father charged for injuring 11-week-old daughter
by Sasha Lenninger Posted: 06.27.2015 at 6:57 PM
Sasha Lenninger is a Reporter/Producer for Good Day.
The Douglas Police Department said last Saturday they were called about a possible child abuse case.
DOUGLAS, GA. -- The Douglas Police Department said last Saturday they were called about a possible child abuse case.
An 11-week-old had two fractures to her skull, multiple fractured ribs and a fractured leg. The child was taken to a hospital in Jacksonville where she remains in critical condition.
Doctors ruled her injures non-accidental and officials discovered she was with her father, 28-year-old Ferris Battle, when the injures happened.
Battle was arrested Friday and has been charged with aggravated battery (family violence) and cruelty to children in the first degree.
Battle is at the Duval County Sheriff’s Office awaiting extradition back to Douglas.
Anyone with information is asked to call the Douglas Police Department at 912-384-2222 or leave a tip at 912-260-3600.
Tuesday, June 16, 2015
Dad charged with felony child abuse; 2-year-old daughter has life-threatening injuries (Spruce Pine, North Carolina)
Is MICHAEL BAXLEY a single and/or custodial father? Notice that there is no mention of a mother in the home or anywhere else.
http://www.wlos.com/news/features/top-stories/stories/mitchell-county-child-abuse-arrest-21460.shtml#.VYCMGtHbLtQ
Mitchell County Child Abuse Arrest
Updated: Thursday, June 11 2015, 01:54 PM EDT
SPRUCE PINE, N.C. -- New developments in the case of a Mitchell County two-year-old who suffered a serious head injury.
The father of the toddler is now facing charges.
The police chief says the two-year-old suffered life-threatening injuries and remains at Mission Hospital.
He says evidence points to the child's father as being the one responsible for his daughter's injuries.
On May 19th emergency responders were called to the Fairground Street Apartments to a report of a child that had fallen and was unresponsive.
When crews arrived, two-year-old Rosanna Baxley was found unresponsive. The girl's father told officers she fell off a bed and hit her head.
Rosanna was transported to Blue Ridge Regional Hospital then flown to Mission Hospital.
This past Tuesday, the girl's father, Michael Baxley, was arrested and charged with felony child abuse inflicting serious bodily injury.
The police chief says evidence shows the injuries Rosanna sustained did not occur from falling off a bed, because of the severity. He also says because her body temperature had dropped below well below what it should be, the incident likely occurred well before the 911 call was made.
While in the hospital, Rosanna has had part of her skull removed.
The chief says she likely has a long road to recovery ahead. Chief Bill Summerlin, Spruce Pine Police Department, "her recovery is going to be critical from here on out and I'm sure that it's going to be a slow, agonizing process for her but she's off the ventilator and we still have hope."
Baxley had his first court appearance Wednesday and remains in jail on a $250,000 bond.
The chief says the father was the only one with Rosanna when crews arrived.
http://www.wlos.com/news/features/top-stories/stories/mitchell-county-child-abuse-arrest-21460.shtml#.VYCMGtHbLtQ
Mitchell County Child Abuse Arrest
Updated: Thursday, June 11 2015, 01:54 PM EDT
SPRUCE PINE, N.C. -- New developments in the case of a Mitchell County two-year-old who suffered a serious head injury.
The father of the toddler is now facing charges.
The police chief says the two-year-old suffered life-threatening injuries and remains at Mission Hospital.
He says evidence points to the child's father as being the one responsible for his daughter's injuries.
On May 19th emergency responders were called to the Fairground Street Apartments to a report of a child that had fallen and was unresponsive.
When crews arrived, two-year-old Rosanna Baxley was found unresponsive. The girl's father told officers she fell off a bed and hit her head.
Rosanna was transported to Blue Ridge Regional Hospital then flown to Mission Hospital.
This past Tuesday, the girl's father, Michael Baxley, was arrested and charged with felony child abuse inflicting serious bodily injury.
The police chief says evidence shows the injuries Rosanna sustained did not occur from falling off a bed, because of the severity. He also says because her body temperature had dropped below well below what it should be, the incident likely occurred well before the 911 call was made.
While in the hospital, Rosanna has had part of her skull removed.
The chief says she likely has a long road to recovery ahead. Chief Bill Summerlin, Spruce Pine Police Department, "her recovery is going to be critical from here on out and I'm sure that it's going to be a slow, agonizing process for her but she's off the ventilator and we still have hope."
Baxley had his first court appearance Wednesday and remains in jail on a $250,000 bond.
The chief says the father was the only one with Rosanna when crews arrived.
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