By: Natasha Archary
Pretoria parents have been sentenced to 14-years in prison for beating their 5-week old daughter, leaving her with 31 broken bones.
The infant was first beaten violently in April 2020 and was admitted to hospital with injuries consistent with child abuse.
According to reports the baby girl had a fractured collarbone which was broken two to three weeks prior to her being admitted to hospital.
Additionally, the infant had been left with 15 fractures to her ribs, as well as broken legs.
The parents were convicted of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm by the Pretoria High Court.
Initially, Afriforum’s Private Prosecution Unit assisted doctors with opening a criminal case after the baby was first admitted to hospital.
However, the case was closed due to lack of evidence.
While an investigation was done, the baby was placed back into the care of her parents.
Three months later, the baby was admitted to hospital again after having contracted pneumonia. The baby also suffered from shock and dehydration.
Reports show the baby was also extremely hungry and an MRI scan indicated further injuries which were significant of the child being violently shaken.
Doctors agreed that the baby’s injuries were likely the result of her being repeatedly abused.
A second case was opened against the parents, and the couple were subsequently arrested with the matter being handed over to courts.
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