The Orange County Criminal Lawyer Blog
The injuries prompted an investigation after a pediatrician notified authorities, leading officers and child welfare officials to examine what had happened to the child. The infant was taken to a regional hospital, where doctors evaluated the injuries and determined they were consistent with human bite marks, according to court records. The investigators then began gathering information about the circumstances surrounding the child’s injuries and identifying who had been responsible for the infant’s care.
During the investigation, the authorities learned that an 18-year-old man had been caring for the newborn when the injuries allegedly occurred. According to the probable cause affidavit, the man later acknowledged his involvement in the incident while speaking with relatives and investigators.
The authorities said the suspect provided additional details during an interview with police. He allegedly told investigators that the infant had started crying during the early morning hours while he was watching the child.
According to court documents, the suspect allegedly claimed he initially attempted to calm the baby by lightly “nibbling” on the child’s cheek. He then allegedly admitted that he placed the infant’s cheek inside his mouth and repeatedly bit down in a chomping motion.
Investigators said the suspect also allegedly described the baby’s face after the incident as looking like a “busted up egg.” The authorities reported that the medical findings were consistent with the account provided during the investigation, including the description of the injuries.
The 18-year-old was charged on July 29 with battery resulting in bodily injury to a person younger than 14, a felony.
If you or someone you love is suspected of a criminal offense, contact Orange County criminal defense lawyer Staycie R. Sena at (949) 477-8088 for a consultation now.