Man charged after child seriously injured

A man will appear in court today accused of inflicting serious injuries on an 11-month-old child.

The young boy from Palmerston North is believed to have suffered his injuries on Saturday, 1 May at an address in Opunake.

On Wednesday, 5 May, in Palmerston North, the boy's mother became concerned that her son appeared unwell and she sought medical help.

A local community medical facility quickly diagnosed that the child appeared to have a fractured leg and referred the child to Palmerston North Hospital where more injuries were discovered and the boy was immediately transferred to Starship Hospital in Auckland.

It eventually transpired that the child had fractures to both legs and a fractured skull. He is no longer in hospital but is receiving ongoing medical treatment.

Police immediately launched an investigation.

Detective Glenda Barnaby said: "Investigations inevitably become more complex when the victim is not able to tell you what has happened, and it is so important with children that someone gives them a voice. We worked closely with medical practitioners to establish exactly how and when the injuries were caused."

The investigation continued throughout May, and into June, and last night a 45-year-old man from Wanganui was arrested and charged with wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and failing to provide necessities for a child.

The man will appear at Palmerston North District Court today and Police will be opposing bail.

Anyone who has any information about child abuse or neglect is encouraged to contact the Police. Information can be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

Media enquiries should be referred to Communications Manager Kim Perks on 06 351 2546 or 027 234 8256.