A Hardin County man has been arrested after using a technique he saw on social media to relieve his two-month-old baby’s “gastrointestinal discomfort” that resulted in the infant suffering multiple broken ribs.
“The Hardin County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Unit received information on a two-month-old Hardin County infant who was at Norton Children’s Hospital with three bilateral healing rib fractures,” Hardin County Sheriff John Ward said.
Hardin County detectives, in coordination with Child Protective Services (CPS), met with the child’s mother at the hospital where she identified the child’s father, 26-year-old Austin R. Webster, of Cecilia, as a possible suspect.
Police then responded to the family’s residence to speak with Webster.
During an interview, Webster stated “the infant had been experiencing gastrointestinal discomfort and bowel issues,” according to Ward.
“He admitted to attempting a technique he had seen on social media in hopes of relieving the child’s symptoms. Webster further acknowledged that he handled the infant in a rough manner and that his actions likely caused the rib fractures,” Ward said.
Webster was arrested on Wednesday and charged with second-degree criminal abuse, a class D felony.
He’s being held in the Hardin County Detention Center on a $10,000 cash bond.
Ward issued the following “Important Safety Reminder”:
The Hardin County Sheriff’s Office strongly advises against attempting medical procedures or manipulation techniques learned from social media. Such unverified methods can cause severe injury, especially to infants and young children. Always seek guidance from a licensed medical professional for any health concerns.
By Ken Howlett, News Director
Contact Ken at ken@k105.com
