Police said the baby suffered injuries to the face and head during repeated episodes of alleged abuse.
INDIANAPOLIS — Two Indiana parents are facing felony charges after police said their infant son suffered multiple injuries during separate acts of abuse inside the family’s home, including wounds to the child’s mouth and head.
Investigators said the case began after medical workers examined the baby and found injuries they believed were inconsistent with normal accidents. Authorities later interviewed the child’s parents and reviewed statements describing several incidents that allegedly occurred while the infant was crying or being fed. Court records show both parents were arrested after detectives concluded the injuries were caused intentionally.
According to investigators, the child’s mother admitted becoming frustrated while feeding the baby and forcefully pushing a bottle into the infant’s mouth, causing the child’s lip to split open. Police said the woman told investigators she became overwhelmed by the crying and reacted aggressively during the feeding. Medical staff documented injuries around the child’s mouth that investigators said matched the account provided during questioning.
Authorities also accused the child’s father of physically harming the infant during another incident. According to police affidavits, the man allegedly grabbed the baby’s head, pulled it backward and squeezed it with force while the child was crying. Detectives said doctors later identified injuries and symptoms that raised concern about potential trauma to the infant’s head and neck.
The baby was taken to a hospital for additional evaluation after concerns about abuse were reported. Medical workers examined the child for possible internal injuries and signs of repeated harm. Authorities have not publicly released the child’s exact age or current medical condition, but court filings described the injuries as serious enough to require intervention from child protection officials and law enforcement investigators.
Police said both parents gave statements during interviews with investigators. Court documents outlined allegations that the injuries happened during moments of frustration while trying to calm the infant. Detectives said evidence gathered during the investigation, including medical findings and witness interviews, supported criminal charges against both adults.
The case has drawn attention because of the severity of the allegations involving a very young child. Child welfare officials were notified as part of the investigation, and authorities said additional reviews may determine whether other incidents occurred before the injuries were discovered. Prosecutors have not indicated whether more charges could be filed as the investigation continues.
Family members and neighbors interviewed by local media described shock after learning about the allegations. Some said they had not previously noticed signs of trouble at the home. Investigators, however, said abuse involving infants can sometimes remain hidden until injuries become serious enough to require medical treatment.
Both defendants are expected to appear in court for initial hearings as prosecutors pursue felony child abuse charges. The child remains under medical supervision and protective care while the investigation continues.
Author note: Last updated Tuesday, May 26, 2026.