A Missouri babysitter accused of severely injuring a 5-month-old child claimed her dog was responsible for the baby’s seven broken bones, but a doctor determined the injuries were likely caused by “excessive force” from a human, authorities said. The Vernon County Sheriff’s Office reported that the babysitter now faces charges of first-degree child abuse.
Deputies were called on March 17 following a report of child abuse. Medical officials revealed the infant was being treated for multiple fractures, including two breaks in the left arm, three ribs on the left side, and two in the legs, according to a probable cause statement. The babysitter initially told authorities the injuries occurred when her dog jumped on the baby while the child was lying on the living room floor.
More: Man Dies on His Birthday Trying to Save 13-Year-Old Boy from Drowning
More: 9-Month-Old Baby Severely Burned in Scalding Bath at Georgia Daycare – Mother Sues
According to a report from WFLA, She claimed the baby “made a grunting noise once” during the incident. However, the babysitter’s daughter later noticed the baby’s arm was “not working,” prompting further concern. The babysitter reportedly told a child welfare worker, “It’s my fault.”
A doctor who examined the infant disputed the babysitter’s account, stating that the arm fracture resembled “breaking a pencil in half.” The doctor added that such injuries “don’t typically occur without excessive force.” Authorities noted that the “yanking pulling breaks” in the baby’s arms and legs were “usually consistent with shaking a baby,” according to the probable cause statement, KOAM reported.
More: Death of 19-Year-Old Twin Brothers Ruled Murder-Suicide, But Family Demands Answers
More: Baby Dies After Parents Vanish for Days on Drug Binge
The babysitter, who was the sole caregiver during the weekend the injuries occurred, was charged with first-degree child abuse. Attorney information for the suspect was not immediately available. McClatchy News is withholding the suspect’s name to protect the identity of the child.
Vernon County, where the incident took place, is located approximately 105 miles south of Kansas City. The case has drawn significant attention as authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the infant’s injuries.
READ NEXT:
- Biden calls out Trump over Social Security shakeup and slams staff cuts
- Thieves pull off movie style heist and vanish with millions in LA jewelry
- Kanye West Accuses Taylor Swift of Wild Affair, Now She’s Taking Legal Action
- JD Vance has trophy slip-up during Ohio State’s big moment
- Ciara Steals the Spotlight with Glam Look and Surprise New Music Drop