Courts / Cavan / Report
Child minder denied infant was "violently shaken" in her care, trial hears
Summary
A childminder accused of causing serious harm to a ten-month-old infant pleaded not guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to the charge. Sandra Higgins, aged 36, of The Beeches, Drumgola Wood, Cavan town, is alleged to have intentionally or recklessly caused serious harm to the baby at her home on March 28, 2012. During garda interview, Ms Higgins denied that the child was violently shaken or assaulted while in her care. She told gardai she drove the infant to hospital after the baby suffered a seizure at her home. Medical evidence presented to the court indicated the child presented with unusual bruising, subdural haematoma, healing rib fractures, and bilateral haemorrhage behind the eye. Ms Higgins maintained she had cared for the child since June 2011 and that the baby experienced falls within her home. A detective garda confirmed during cross-examination that Ms Higgins had been cooperative throughout questioning. The trial continues before Judge Martin Nolan and jury.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: Child minder denied infant was "violently shaken" in her care, trial hears. Charges or matters: intentionally or recklessly causing serious harm to the baby at her home on March 28, 2012. Procedural stage: trial
When:
- March 28, 2012 Hearing Or Sentence
- March 30, 2012 Hearing Or Sentence
- April 13th, 2012 Incident
- June 2011 Incident
- 2017-04-26 Publication
Case subjects
Accused
Charges: intentionally or recklessly causing serious harm to the baby at her home on March 28, 2012 (Alleged Or Contested)
Plea: Not guilty
Places mentioned
- Dublin
- Dublin Circuit Criminal Court
- Cavan General Hospital
- Temple Street
Topics
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