A Grafton man is facing charges alleging he shook a 3-month-old baby who later was flown to Fargo for emergency medical attention.
The infant was taken to a medical facility May 11 and airlifted to Sanford Medical Center because of the severity of the injuries, an affidavit for Bruce Lee Umphrey’s arrest said.
The baby’s brain was bleeding, according to the affidavit, which also noted she suffered a stroke, fractured rib, had hemorrhages in both eyes, bruising around her chin and lower cheek, spinal cord compression and a bulging soft spot on her head. Police said the injuries were consistent with shaken baby syndrome.
Umphrey admitted to Grafton police he shook the baby two separate times at his home, 827 Prospect Ave., because he was frustrated she was vomiting, crying or seemed inconsolable, the affidavit said. Umphrey noticed immediate changes in the baby’s demeanor and said her condition worsened as time passed, which is why she was taken to the doctor, the affidavit said. Umphrey told police he knew his actions were wrong and he hid them from everyone, according to the court document.
He is facing charges of aggravated assault and child abuse. Each felony charge holds a maximum penalty of 10 years behind bars.
This article was originally published by Grandforksherald.com.
Scott Juceam is one of the leading advocates against Shaken Baby Syndrome. Scott’s life changed when his daughter Hannah was shaken to death by her nanny in 2006. Since then, Scott has dedicated his life to preventing Shaken Baby Syndrome and child abuse.
To learn more about me, please visit my website at www.ScottJuceam.com or you can click here.
Scott Juceam 