Man charged with assault after Hutt Valley baby found to have multiple broken bones

A man has been arrested and charged after a 3-month-old baby girl was taken to hospital in the Hutt Valley with multiple broken bones - but no charges have been laid over her more serious injuries.

Wellington Police’s Child Protection Team arrested the 23-year-old man on July 31, a month and a half after the girl’s injuries, which included a broken arm, were discovered.

Detective Senior Sergeant Steve Wescott said police were notified about the case when the baby was admitted to hospital on June 14.

“These injuries were unusual for a child so young, and an examination at the hospital identified multiple fractures,” he said.

He earlier said she had a broken arm, which was unusual for a baby that age.

Police immediately launched an investigation, leading to the man’s arrest.

“He has been charged with four counts of assaulting a child, relating to the more minor injuries the baby sustained.”

Police would like to thank the public for providing information in relation to this matter.

“This crucial information assisted our investigation which has led to last week’s arrest.”

Police continue to investigate the matter.

“We are committed to establishing the full circumstances of how the baby’s more serious injuries were inflicted, and holding those responsible to account.”

The man is due to appear in Hutt Valley District Court on August 28.

If you can help, please contact Police via 105, quoting file number 250614/8509.

You can also provide information anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.