Showing posts with label Wrongful Death from Shaken Baby Syndrome. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Wrongful Death from Shaken Baby Syndrome. Show all posts

Friday, October 14, 2011

{October Family Spotlight} Xaviers Awareness



Mr. and Mrs Rudy Delgado - Approx 4 years ago



On June 9, 2007, Melissa was preparing to become Mrs. Delgado, as she married her best friend and soul mate Rudy Delgado.  With a beautiful, elegant wedding joined by friends and family, 2 families soon became one.  Such a beautiful happy time in their lives they shared with all those they love so dearly.


Today, Rudy and Melissa have been married for almost 4 years, they have 3 sons, Braydon 13, Marcus 8, and Xavier, who would be turning 3, and Baby llyssa who is set to make her first debut December 4, 2011.


The Delgado Family - First Family Picture - Xavier, 6mo.

Since September, 2009 thousands have come to know Xavier Delgado as "X" a fighter and Hero, whose life ended far too soon. From the sweetest of moments, Xavier's laugh, his kisses, and the love he continues to give, not a single moment ever goes un-noticed. His smell, his touch, his "coos", his babbles, every gesture any 6 month old could make, are forever instilled in the hearts of the Delgado Family.

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Rudy came into contact with Christopher Keane in Atlanta, Georgia in 2010 at the National Conference on Shaken Baby Syndrome, exchanging phone numbers, they have remained in contact since.

The Mission of Xaviers Awareness is to make sure everyone knows Xaviers story, and to raise awareness in his honor.  In doing so, they host a few events each year that gather hundreds of supporters to honor a life lost far too soon.




They host the Annual Xavier Delgado Walk for Awareness/X Games and from the events, funds are raised for the foundation to help them further their goals to prevent SBS. One of those goals has been reached as a commercial was made in recognition of Xavier in his Memory.

The Delgado Family also hosts an Annual B.Y.O.B (Bring Your Own Balloon) ANGELversary balloon release on September 29th every year to honor Xavier.



One of the goals the Delgado Family has for Xaviers Awareness Foundation is to have a law passed Nationwide to watch a video on Shaken Baby Syndrome and to sign a promise contract when they have a child to prevent Shaken Baby Syndrome.

Through the many many good things the Delgado Family plans to do in honor of Xavier to carry on his Legacy, there are many moments of depression, many moments of anger and confusion, and many moments asking why, why did this have to happen to Xavier? Rudy expressed the great power the love his family continues to give to him and the out pouring support for Xavier and their family pushes them through the motions each and everyday. Pieces of each of their hearts vanished when Xavier passed away.

Xavier wearing Daddy's Father's Day Present

If there was one thing Rudy truly wishes he could do in Xaviers Honor, Rudy would like to speak with the President, to express the necessity for the laws for those whom have injured our children to be reviewed and much more strict to protect our children.  Rudy states, "Shaken Baby Syndrome needs to be brought to the fore front, and not to be hidden any longer! Shaken Baby Syndrome is 100% preventable, and until we open up everyone's eyes, on the harsh reality of Shaken Baby Syndrome, nothing is going to change."

The two greatest occurrences in the past 2 years that have truly helped Rudy and Melissa go through the motions of SBS have been the National Conference on Shaken Baby Syndrome and the Shaken Baby Syndrome Candlelight Vigil.  At both events, they were able to spend time and meet with families that have been through comparable situations concerning Shaken Baby Syndrome, who knew to a degree what they were going through, and what they will have to go through in the future.





If you would like to learn more about Xavier Delgado and the Xaviers Awareness Foundation, please visit:
http://www.xaviersawareness.com

If you have any questions or concerns about what can be done to help babies who have been shaken, or families of babies who have died, please call Christopher Keane and The Keane Law Firm toll-free for free consultation at (888) 592-5437 (KIDS), click on contact us here, or use the web form provided at http://www.keanelaw.com

Free Consultation

Thursday, October 6, 2011

Happy Birthday Jared! Shaken Baby Syndrome of Virginia, Inc.



Yesterday, October 6, 2011, marked Jared's 5th Birthday.  Jared survived and fought way beyond what doctors could have ever guessed, and the Legacy Steve and Kathy Stowe carry on for him is simply amazing!

On Jared's 5th Birthday, Steve and Kathy spent the day like many others whom have lost a child due to the complications of Surviving Shaken Baby Syndrome, however this year, they reminded the Medical Responders and Fire Department, but honoring them for their service to Jared in the time he was here.

The Stowe's took Pizza, t-shirts, and many other gifts to the Fire and Medical personnel as a thank you, and to remind them how important and touching their services are, not just for them but for all the families.

To Steve and Kathy, Jared may be resting eternally, but he will never be forgotten!

Happy 5th Birthday Jared!

Learn more about Jared, and his Legacy at: http://www.shakenbabyva.com

If you have any questions or concerns about what can be done to help babies who have been shaken, or families of babies who have died, please call Christopher Keane and The Keane Law Firm toll-free for free consultation at (888) 592-5437 (KIDS), click on contact us here, or use the web form provided at http://www.keanelaw.com

Free Consultation

Monday, October 3, 2011

Honoring Xavier Delgado


Thursday September 29, 2011 marked the 2nd Angelversary for our Hero, Xavier Delgado whom became Victim to Shaken Baby Syndrome.  The Delgado Family hosted the 2nd Annual B.Y.O.B (Bring Your Own Balloon) Balloon Release in Xavier's Memory. Thousands gathered together from across the globe in Support of the Delgado's from 6:00p.m. to 7:00p.m. to release a balloon no matter where they were located.

Chris Keane took time to do the same.  Chris has had the chance to meet the Delgado's, and learn of Xavier through them, and also they beautiful Legacy carried on by Melissa and Rudy.

On Thursday September 29, Chris took a blue balloon to Crissy Field in San Francisco, California to release in honor of Xavier.  "X" may be gone, but he will NEVER be forgotten.
In Loving Memory
Xavier "X" Delgado
http://xaviersawareness.com/

If you have any questions or concerns about what can be done to help babies who have been shaken, or families of babies who have died, please call Christopher Keane and The Keane Law Firm toll-free for free consultation at (888) 592-5437 (KIDS), click on contact us here, or use the web form provided at http://www.keanelaw.com
Free Consultation

Monday, November 23, 2009

Parents Charged After Shaken Baby Death of Infant Daughter, Evidence of Abuse in Autopsy Report

Following the death of their infant daughter, Oklahoma parents Willis Joey Lambert Jr. and Latrice Sharron Russell have been charged with first-degree murder in connection with shaking and fatally injuring the child, according to the News OK website.  The siblings of the shaken baby reported to investigators that Lambert was frustrated with his own difficultly learning how to hold the infant girl, and he confessed that he fatally shook the baby because he could not get her dressed after bath time.  According to an autopsy report, the infant died of a brain injury and had previously suffered five broken ribs.  Since Lambert was reportedly a known child abuser, Russell has been charged with failing to protect her daughter from him.

Wrongful death from shaken baby syndrome is something no child should have to suffer, and no caregiver or family member should have to live with the burden that a child’s fatal injuries may have been prevented.  As an advocate for families who have lost children due to shaken baby syndrome and other cases of injury or abuse, Chris Keane is familiar with the indescribable pain and suffering experienced after tragedy, and he expresses his deepest sympathies to the family of the young victim in this incident.  For free resources, information, and answers to any questions regarding wrongful death or shaken baby syndrome, feel free to contact Chris Keane online or by phone at 1-888-592-KIDS.

Friday, October 23, 2009

Licensed Day Care Provider Charged for Shaken Baby Death

A day care provider from Talbot County, Maryland, has been arrested in connection with the shaken baby death of a nine-month old boy she cared for in her home, according to the WBOC 16 news website.  Police say that 911 received a call from Gail Dobson, 52, on September 2, who requested an ambulance and stated that the baby was experiencing difficulty breathing.  When paramedics arrived, baby Trevor Ulrich, 9 months old, was in full cardiac arrest.  Despite efforts from two hospitals, Little Trevor was pronounced dead at a children's hospital the next day.  According to the autopsy, the child died of inflicted head trauma, an injury caused by shaken baby syndrome, and the death was ruled a homicide.  Upon investigation and review of medical evidence, authorities determined that Trevor sustained his fatal injuries while under Dobson's care.  As a result, Dobson has been charged with manslaughter, several counts of child abuse, assault, and reckless endangerment.  She is currently being held on a $750,000 bond in Maryland's Talbot County Detention Center.

Dobson was a licensed day care provider who only watched baby Trevor for two days, yet she allegedly inflicted trauma on the child's head, causing a fatal case of shaken baby syndrome.

As a shaken baby syndrome attorney and father of two, Chris Keane expresses his deepest sympathies to the family and friends of baby Trevor.  Although nothing can compensate for the tragic and indescribably difficult loss of a child, certain measures can be taken to help surviving family members as they go through the grieving process.  For more information on shaken baby syndrome, wrongful death, and how you can receive free help during your time of need, contact Chris Keane of the Keane Law Firm.

You may contact Chris Keane online or call 1-888-592-KIDS (1-888-592-5437).

Relevant Link:

Talbot County Day Care Provider Charged in Infant's Death

Thursday, October 1, 2009

2 1/2-Month-Old Girl Dies From Abusive Head Trauma in Florida, Father Charged With First-Degree Murder

A 23-year-old father has been charged with aggravated child abuse and first-degree murder for allegedly shaking his 2 1/2-month-old daughter in Winter Springs, Florida, according to the Orlando Sentinel.  Ventrel Gammons was with baby Samiyah over two years ago while the baby's mother was away, and the child reportedly stopped breathing.  Upon medical examination, it was concluded that the baby died of internal trauma (blunt force trauma) to the head.  In addition to abusive head trauma (shaken baby syndrome), the little girl suffered four broken ribs and had broken her leg only one month before the incident.  Due to severe head injuries from the alleged abuse, the girl died.  Gammons' trial was scheduled for September 29 at the time of the report.

If you have lost a child due to shaken baby syndrome, child abuse and child injury attorney Chris Keane can help you connect with other families and organizations that can help you through the coping process.  If you believe that your child may be suffering from shaken baby syndrome, the Keane Law Firm can help you find the medical care your child needs to diagnose and treat his or her injuries.  For free answers to any questions you may have regarding shaken baby syndrome (abusive head trauma), wrongful death, or helpful programs for victims of child abuse, contact Chris Keane in an online form or call 1-888-592-KIDS.

Friday, August 28, 2009

Father Charged in Connection With Son's Death From Abusive Head Trauma

After the death of his two-month-old son, the father of the baby boy has been charged with child abuse resulting in serious bodily injury and fatality in connection with the son's severe head injuries, according to the Dastardly Dads website.  The site reports that police received a call from the boy's home on August 10th informing them that the baby was not breathing.  Upon investigation and an autopsy report, authorities have stated that the death most likely resulted from abusive head trauma (shaken baby syndrome).  The father, Brandon Vaughn Yancey, was arrested.

Wrongful death from shaken baby syndrome is something no child should have to suffer, and no caregiver or family member should have to live with the burden that a child’s fatal injuries may have been prevented.  As an advocate for families who have lost children due to shaken baby syndrome and other cases of injury or abuse, Chris Keane is familiar with the indescribable pain and suffering experienced after tragedy, and he expresses his deepest sympathies to the family of the young victim in this incident.  For free resources, information, and answers to any questions regarding wrongful death or shaken baby syndrome, feel free to contact Chris Keane online or by phone at 1-888-592-KIDS.

Relevant Link:

Arvada man charged in the death of his infant son

Sunday, August 23, 2009

Fatal Shaken Baby Syndrome Case in Ohio | CA Child Abuse Lawyer

We recently added a blog post to our law firm (Keane Law Firm) website about a fatal shaken baby syndrome case in Ohio.  According to reports, Richard Davidson faces charges of murder and felonious assault for the death of a child he was babysitting at the time of the incident, 4-month-old Izabella Virginia.  To read more about this specific incident of shaken baby syndrome and fatal injuries from abusive head trauma, click here.

As an experienced shaken baby syndrome and child wrongful death lawyer, Chris Keane is familiar with the indescribable trauma experienced after losing a child, and he expresses his deepest sympathies to the relatives who are mourning the wrongful death of this infant.  Although nothing can compensate for the tragic loss of a baby, certain measures can be taken to help families of shaken babies.  If you would like to know more about how the Keane Law Firm can assist you in your recovery, feel free to contact Chris Keane online or call 1-888-592-KIDS.

Saturday, August 22, 2009

Guilty Plea in Fatal Shaken Baby Case | Child Wrongful Death Attorney

In a recent shaken baby syndrome case in Pasadena, John Wirick plead guilty to the manslaughter of his daughter, Lilyanna, only one month old.  According to reports, Wirick explained through tears how he was trying to calm his daughter down from a crying spell.  For more information on this fatal shaken baby syndrome incident and other cases of abusive head trauma, click here.

If you have lost a child due to abusive head trauma, the Keane Law Firm expresses its deepest sympathies to you and your family.  As an experienced shaken baby syndrome and child wrongful death lawyer, Chris Keane will provide you with resources and assistance needed after a devastating loss, and he will answer any questions you have for free at no obligation to you.  Although nothing can compensate for the tragic loss of a child, certain measures can be taken to help families of shaken babies as they try to recover from the indescribable pain of losing a loved one.  Chris Keane has the resources and experience to provide that help and will be glad to talk with you for free if you would like to know more about how the Keane Law Firm can assist you.

To contact Chris Keane, fill out our online contact form or call 1-888-592-KIDS (1-888-592-5437).

Relevant Link:

Pasadena Father Pleads Guilty in Infant's Death

Thursday, August 20, 2009

Baby Dies From Abusive Head Trauma Before Even Two Months Old | CA Child Wrongful Death Lawyer

Just shy of two months old, Camarah Fisher was transported to a local hospital when EMS responders discovered that she was having trouble breathing in her home on August 22 of this year.  After being taken to a second hospital that specializes in treating children, the infant reportedly died of abusive head traumaTo read more about the shaken baby cases of baby Camarah and other infants, click here.

If you have lost a child due to shaken baby syndrome, child abuse and child injury attorney Chris Keane can help you connect with other families and organizations that can help you through the coping process.  If you believe that your child may be suffering from shaken baby syndrome, the Keane Law Firm can help you find the medical care your child needs to diagnose and treat his or her injuries.  For free answers to any questions you may have regarding shaken baby syndrome (abusive head trauma), wrongful death, or helpful programs for victims of child abuse, contact Chris Keane in an online form or call 1-888-592-KIDS.

Relevant Link:

Infant Death Being Investigated in Center Point

Wednesday, August 5, 2009

Boyfriend of Child's Mother Confesses After Baby Dies of Shaken Baby Syndrome

A 39-year-old man from Hollywood, FL, recently confessed to shaking his girlfriend's 11-month-old baby to death in June 2009, according to the Orlando Sentinel.  According to police, Cecil Weekes has been charged with murder in connection with the incident of shaken baby syndrome that occurred three days before young Angeliah Duncan's death.  Weekes and the baby's mother were reportedly home when the child began to cry uncontrollably, leading to the Hollywood man's frustration and the tragic incident.  Angeliah was pronounced dead June 15th at Memorial Regional Hospital, and an autopsy confirmed that her fatality was a result of shaken baby syndrome.

As an experienced shaken baby syndrome and child wrongful death lawyer, Chris Keane is familiar with the indescribable trauma experienced after losing a child, and he expresses his deepest condolences to the friends and family mourning the wrongful death of this baby.  For free information regarding wrongful death, shaken baby syndrome, or answers unique to your situation, feel free to contact Chris Keane online or call 1-888-592-KIDS.

Relevant Link:

Hollywood man charged in death of girlfriend's baby

Friday, July 31, 2009

Parents Charged in Shaken Baby Death of 4-Month-Old Child | Wrongful Death Lawyer

Parents of a 4-month-old baby who died of shaken baby syndrome in 2007 are facing the courts in connection with the fatal incident of child abuse, according to the Clarion Ledger.   Judge Tomie Green believes that both parents, who live in Jackson, Mississippi, are guilty of child neglect and abuse that occurred on multiple occasions.  Monday, July 27, father Christopher Brown Sr., age 28, told Judge Green that the baby's injuries occurred when he was throwing the child into the air and the infant accidentally landed on the floor.  Brown claims that he shook his son because the child appeared to be in a daze.  At Monday's sentencing, a forensic pathologist testified that the baby's death resulted from shaken baby syndrome, despite Brown's story.  According to the autopsy, little Brown Jr. had suffered previous injuries, as well, for which the couple said they did not seek medical treatment because they were afraid they'd lose the child, even though they claimed the injuries resulted from an accident.  As a result, Brown Sr. was sentenced to 30 years in prison, but the judge suspended 20 of them since he believes the father was not solely responsible for the baby's fatality.  Amanda Kersh, the infant's mother, has been charged with felony child neglect and is scheduled to enter a plea on August 3rd.

As an experienced shaken baby syndrome and child wrongful death lawyer, Chris Keane is familiar with the indescribable trauma experienced after losing a child, and he expresses his deepest sympathies to the relatives who are mourning the wrongful death of this infant.  Although nothing can compensate for the tragic loss of a baby, certain measures can be taken to help families of shaken babies.  If you would like to know more about how the Keane Law Firm can assist you in your recovery, feel free to contact Chris Keane online or call 1-888-592-KIDS.

Relevant Link:

Clarion Ledger:  10-Year Sentence Given

Tuesday, July 28, 2009

8-Month-Old Child Dies from Shaken Baby Syndrome Injuries, Monterey Man Arrested | CA Child Wrongful Death Lawyer

An 8-month-old child from Monterey, CA, died Monday, July 27, from injuries consistent with shaken baby syndrome, according to the KION news website.  The initial report of injury occurred Friday, July 24, when police received a call from the Casa Verde Inn stating that a baby was unconscious after falling.  According to the site, the child was then transported to Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula before being airlifted to Stanford Medical Center for treatment.  Twenty-four-year-old William Fajardo was arrested the same day in connection with incident and now faces charges of homicide and assault resulting in child fatality, among other charges.  Investigators reported that Fajardo's girlfriend, 17, was not present at the time of the alleged shaking incident.

Wrongful death from shaken baby syndrome is something no child should have to suffer, and no parent should have to live with the burden that a child's fatal injuries may have been prevented.  As an advocate for families who have lost children due to shaken baby syndrome and other cases of injury or abuse, Chris Keane is familiar with the indescribable pain and suffering experienced after tragedy, and he expresses his deepest sympathies to the family of the young victim in this incident.  For free resources, information, and answers to any questions regarding wrongful death or shaken baby syndrome, feel free to contact Chris Keane online or by phone at 1-888-592-KIDS.

Relevant Link:

KION:  Baby Dies, Man Arrested for Child Abuse

Monday, July 13, 2009

Father Takes Plea Deal in Shaken Baby Case That Led to Daughter's Death | Shaken Baby Syndrome Attorney

A Salt Lake City father took a plea deal Friday, July 10, after facing accusations of shaking his baby to the point of fatal injuries, according to the ABC 4 News website.  Everado Mendoza, 22, will serve up to 15 years in prison for shaking his then two-month-old girl in November 2007, resulting in her death.  Although Mendoza did not admit that he was guilty of the accusation, he admitted that prosecutors had enough evidence to convict him of shaking his child.  Following his prison sentence, he will be deported to Mexico.

Child abuse and shaken baby syndrome attorney Chris Keane commits his practice to representing children and only children in injury and abuse cases.  When those cases result in fatality, Keane represents the proper party in a wrongful death case with compassion and professionalism.  If you believe that your child may be suffering from shaken baby syndrome (also called abusive head trauma), feel free to contact Chris Keane of the Keane Law Firm for free resources and helpful information regarding how to find the medical care your child needs and other concerns unique to you.  If you have lost a child due to shaken baby syndrome, the Keane Law Firm expresses its deepest sympathies to you, and we will be glad to answer any questions you have for free regarding your situation.

Click here to contact Chris Keane online or call 1-888-592-KIDS (1-888-592-5437).

Wednesday, July 8, 2009

Emergency Room Worker Speaks to News Channel After Father Receives Life Sentence in Shaken Baby Case | CA Child Injury Lawyer

A Colorado emergency room worker recently spoke to News Channel 13 regarding the channel's report on the conviction of the father of a shaken baby.  According to the channel's website, Pueblo, CO, resident Jeff Casias received a life sentence for the wrongful death of his daughter, Jaime Casias, who would have turned three this summer if she had survived.  Due to the "worst case of shaken baby" the doctors had ever seen, says paramedic Sharon Abbey, little Jaime died at only seven weeks of age.  According to Abbey, who first treated Jaime when she arrived at the emergency room, the infant's father brought Jaime to the ER saying that she wasn't breathing and desperately asked the paramedic to "do something."  Upon hearing the court decision regarding Jeff Casias, Abbey told News Channel 13 that she is glad the life sentence sends a message to parents about the seriousness of shaking a baby, though she is heartbroken that no sentence could ever bring justice to the innocent baby.  Abbey hopes that parents and caregivers will learn what to do when a child cries continuously, since it is something that does happen, and will call 911 for help if they have exhausted all resources and don't know what to do with their babies.

If you think that your baby may have been shaken or is suffering from shaken baby syndrome, contact the Keane Law Firm for help regarding medical care, financial assistance, and other resources your child needs to recover from injuries and achieve maximum health.  Chris Keane represents children and only children in shaken baby syndrome and other child injury cases, and he will answer your questions for free with compassion and professionalism.

To contact Chris Keane, fill out the Keane Law Firm's online contact form or call 1-888-592-KIDS (1-888-592-5437).

To request a free copy of Chris Keane's newest book, Little Kids in BIG cases:  Shaken Baby Syndrome, click here.

Tuesday, June 30, 2009

Wrongful Death from Abusive Head Trauma | California Shaken Baby Syndrome Attorney

There is no greater tragedy than losing a child, and knowing that the wrongful death of your child resulted from someone's negligence or abuse is a burden that no parent or caregiver should have to bear.  Although the Keane Law Firm handles many cases in which a victim of shaken baby syndrome has been seriously injured, Chris Keane of the Keane Law Firm also handles cases in which a shaken baby syndrome injury turned fatal.  Injuries resulting from abusive head trauma (shaken baby syndrome) are serious:  the brain bleeds, becomes inflamed or swollen, and its soft tissue becomes damaged from the back and forth motion of hitting the inside of the skull.  The pressure in the brain can lead to brain damage, neuromuscular problems or paralysis, seizures, cerebral palsy, blindness, deafness.  Many adults and caregivers fail to realize how quickly and easily an injury can occur in a child; since a child's brain has more water content than that of an adult and is still developing, babies are more vulnerable to serious injury when blunt force or shaking occurs.   Even a small amount of pressure or force can lead to permanent injury and, sometimes, death.

If you have lost a child due to abusive head trauma, the Keane Law Firm expresses its deepest sympathies to you and your family.  As an experienced shaken baby syndrome and child wrongful death lawyer, Chris Keane will provide you with resources and assistance needed after a devastating loss, and he will answer any questions you have for free at no obligation to you.  Although nothing can compensate for the tragic loss of a child, certain measures can be taken to help families of shaken babies as they try to recover from the indescribable pain of losing a loved one.  Chris Keane has the resources and experience to provide that help and will be glad to talk with you for free if you would like to know more about how the Keane Law Firm can assist you.

To contact Chris Keane, fill out our online contact form or call 1-888-592-KIDS (1-888-592-5437).

Mother's Boyfriend Charged in Wrongful Death of Shaken Baby | CA Child Wrongful Death Lawyer

After the February death of a 21-month-old girl in Michigan, the 20-year-old boyfriend of the baby's mother faces charges of first-degree child abuse and felony murder after allegedly shaking the child, according to the Freep.com website.  According to police, Carlos Raymore was watching the girl while her mother was at work when he began to call his girlfriend about "problems with the child."  The toddler girl was then taken to the hospital and found to be suffering from head trauma consistent with shaken baby syndrome.  She died one day later.

At the Keane Law Firm, Chris Keane has helped clients as they go through the indescribably difficult process of coping after losing a child, and he expresses his deepest sympathies to the family and friends of the young girl in this incident as they mourn her wrongful death.  As an advocate for injured children and an experienced child wrongful death lawyer, Keane works to recover the compensation families need following tragic incidents such as this.  If you have lost a child or believe that your child may be suffering from shaken baby syndrome, feel free to contact the Keane Law Firm with your most important questions.  Chris Keane will compassionately and professionally consult with you for free regarding your unique situation.

Contact Chris Keane online or call 1-888-592-KIDS.

Relevant Link:

Story on Freep website

After Shaken Baby Trial, Billy Bob Thornton's Daughter Indicted | CA Abusive Head Trauma Lawyer

Billy Bob Thornton's oldest daughter was indicted on multiple charges Wednesday, June 24, for shaking a baby who was under her care in central Florida in October 2008.  Among the charges for 29-year-old Amanda Brumfield are first-degree murder, aggravated manslaughter, and aggravated child abuse, despite Brumfield's story that the child's death was an accident.

Brumfield reportedly told authorities that the 1-year-old girl, whom she was babysitting at the time, fell from a playpen and hit her head on hard object on October 3rd, but Brumfield did not call 911 for help until more than two hours after the baby was unresponsive.  The autopsy report revealed injuries that were inconsistent with the babysitter's story:  upon finding a brain injury and fractured skull, the medical examiner ruled the death a homicide.  Police say that they believe the baby's head did strike a hard object, but they do not believe that a short distance fall from a playpen could cause such severe trauma to the head.

The Oscar-winner's daughter was arrested earlier this month and booked at the Orange County Jail.  When contacted after her arrest, Thornton's publicist said that he and his daughter have been estranged for a long time.

Although this particular incident of shaken baby syndrome resulted in a criminal case against the offender, the Keane Law Firm can file civil cases against anyone who failed to care adequately for children.  In a civil case, it is not required to prove that someone intentionally shook a baby; it is only necessary to prove that someone neglected the child or failed to provide proper care for the baby who was injured as a result.

If you have questions for a shaken baby syndrome and child injury lawyer, contact the Keane Law Firm for free answers regarding your unique situation.  You can contact Chris Keane online or call 1-888-592-KIDS (1-888-592-5437).

Relevant Links:

People Magazine Story

Hollyscoop Story

Vigil for Shaken Baby Syndrome Victim Aimed to Educate and Help Heal | Child Wrongful Death Lawyer

In Danville, IL, a candlelight vigil is scheduled for this week in remembrance of toddler Reagan Williams, a fatal victim of shaken baby syndrome, according to the News-Gazette.  This year marks the third anniversary of young Reagan's death, and the vigil is open to the community.  According to the autopsy report, the toddler died at age two and a half of head trauma consistent with shaken baby syndrome on July 2, 2006, while in the care of her mother, Tracy Green, and Green's boyfriend, Ryan Allhands.  Twenty-three-year-old Allhands awaits a July 20th trial and faces charges of first-degree murder for Reagan's death.

According to Reagan's paternal grandfather, Greg Williams, the vigil is not about placing blame, but about celebrating the life of the toddler, sharing memories, and coming together for healing.  Williams plans to share information about abusive head trauma (shaken baby syndrome) and domestic violence at the event, especially since so many child abuse and shaken baby syndrome cases continue to arise.  Williams believes that more education is crucial:  after Reagan died, Williams, his wife, and the baby's other grandparents joined forces to start a nonprofit organization that supports local agencies for victims of abuse and implements awareness programs on domestic violence and shaken baby syndrome.   Through the organization, Reagan's Rescue, as well as other shaken baby syndrome organizations, Williams has been able to help other grandfathers cope after losing their grandchildren in similar cases of abuse.

If you have lost a child due to shaken baby syndrome, child abuse and child injury attorney Chris Keane can help you connect with other families and organizations that can help you through the coping process.  If you believe that your child may be suffering from shaken baby syndrome, the Keane Law Firm can help you find the medical care your child needs to diagnose and treat his or her injuries.  For free answers to any questions you may have regarding shaken baby syndrome (abusive head trauma), wrongful death, or helpful programs for victims of child abuse, contact Chris Keane in an online form or call 1-888-592-KIDS.

Sunday, June 28, 2009

Father Says Baby Was Unresponsive, Admits to Shaking Baby & Faces Homicide by Child Abuse Charge | Shaken Baby Syndrome Attorney

The father of a two-month-old baby was arrested and faces a charge of homicide by child abuse due to the death of the child which may have resulted from shaken baby syndrome, according to the WIS 10 news website.  According to the site, the Orangeburg, SC, father told authorities that he tripped while holding his baby and then found the baby to be unresponsive, and he admits that his response was to shake the child.  According to the news source, Anwar Young faces 20 years to life in prison if convicted of child abuse charges.

Neonatologist Dr. Kim Lee is quoted in the article for explaining that babies will cry simply to communicate and, though the sound can be "loud and frustrating," parents must learn to put their babies down and walk into another room for a while if necessary to calm their own nerves.  According to Lee, it appears as if advice in the "old days" told parents to shake babies in order to arouse them from what must be sleepiness if the babies were less responsive than usual.  Current medical research, however, has found that shaking a baby can be extremely dangerous since the brain tissue of a young baby is not developed completely.  In fact, doctors say that shaking a baby can lead to delays in development, bleeding in the brain, or even death.  According to the website, all hospitals give parents information regarding shaken baby syndrome, why it occurs, and what to do instead of shaking a baby.  Among the information some hospitals are including is the fact that some babies can cry over three hours a day up to three months of age, sometimes for no apparent reason.

If you believe that your child may be suffering from shaken baby syndrome, the Keane Law Firm can help you by providing you with relevant resources, information, and free answers to your pressings questions unique to your particular situation.  Child abuse and child injury attorney Chris Keane focuses his practice on representing children and only children, fighting as an advocate for those who have been abused, injured, or suffered wrongful death.  For free resources, answers to questions, and information regarding how to receive the best medical care for your child, contact Chris Keane on the web or call 1-888-592-KIDS.

Relevant Link:

Baby Dies After Father Admits Shaking Him