Bronx baby girl in critical condition after being punched by mother’s teenage boyfriend, according to police reports.
A one-year-old girl from the Bronx sustained severe injuries due to an alleged assault by her mother’s teenage boyfriend, resulting in the need for surgical intervention. Prosecutors disclosed that the infant was repeatedly struck in the head, requiring the removal of a portion of her skull to alleviate pressure caused by swelling.
Emergency responders arrived at the family’s apartment on Union Avenue near East 152nd Street at approximately 9:30 PM after receiving a 911 call from the child’s mother. Upon arrival, authorities found the child in a distressing condition, semi-conscious with significant facial swelling, particularly noticeable around her left eye, and experiencing difficulty breathing.
Medical personnel transferred the girl to Harlem Hospital, where she was reported to be in critical but stable condition. According to court documents, her injuries included extensive subdural hemorrhaging on the right side of her head. The combination of these injuries led to increased intracranial pressure and brain herniation, necessitating the urgent surgical procedure to relieve the pressure.
The girl’s mother informed investigators that she had entrusted her daughter to the care of 19-year-old Jerome Thomas for a brief period of 45 minutes. Upon returning home, she discovered her daughter on the bed with notable bruising. Thomas, who is romantically involved with the child’s mother but is not related to the infant, later admitted to police that he struck the child twice on the head using “heavy hands.” His actions, as cited in the criminal complaint, directly resulted in the child’s injuries.
Following this incident, Thomas was arrested and charged with felony assault and endangering the welfare of a child. He was subsequently arraigned in Bronx Criminal Court, where he was ordered to be held without bail. Attempts to contact his legal representation were unsuccessful.
As investigations continue, this case underscores ongoing concerns regarding child safety and domestic violence in the community. Authorities emphasize the importance of vigilance and prompt reporting of suspected abuse to protect vulnerable populations. The child’s condition remains a focal point for both medical professionals and law enforcement as they navigate the ramifications of this tragic event.
