Man charged over baby's serious injuries

A 45-year-old Wanganui man is appearing in court today accused of inflicting serious injuries on an 11-month-old child, say police.

The young boy from Palmerston North is believed to have suffered his injuries on Saturday, 1 May at an address in Opunake.

Police say the boy's mother became concerned about her son on the following Wednesday and sought medical help.

The boy was taken to Palmerston North Hospital with a suspected fractured leg. More serious injuries were then discovered and he was immediately transferred to Starship Hospital in Auckland.

Medical staff found he had fractures to both legs and a fractured skull.

He is no longer in hospital but is receiving ongoing medical treatment.

A police investigation was immediately launched and continued throughout May and into June.

Last night a 45-year-old man from Wanganui was arrested and charged with wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and failing to provide necessities for a child.

He is appearing in Palmerston North District Court today. Police will be opposing bail.

- NZ Herald staff