Courts / Cavan / Report
Shaken baby syndrome has no "scientific validation", UK Doctor tells childminder trial
Summary
A defence witness at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court has testified that shaken baby syndrome lacks scientific validation. The neuropathologist told the trial that she formerly supported the diagnosis but changed her view after research overturned key elements underpinning it. Sandra Higgins, a registered childminder from Drumgola Wood, Cavan town, has pleaded not guilty to intentionally or recklessly causing serious harm to a ten-month-old child in her care on 28 March 2012. The defence witness told the court there was evidence of pre-existing subdural haemorrhage in the child and of older injuries. She also noted that babies can experience a lucid interval following head injury. The witness cautioned against assuming the timing of injury based solely on when a child collapsed. Closing speeches were to follow, with proceedings before Judge Patricia Ryan and a jury continuing.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: Shaken baby syndrome has no "scientific validation", UK Doctor tells childminder trial. Charges or matters: intentionally or recklessly causing serious harm to the baby on March 28, 2012. Procedural stage: trial
When:
- March 28, 2012 Hearing Or Sentence
- 2015-06-22 Publication
Why: "I think it is very dangerous to say because the child collapses at a certain time we know when the injury occurred," she said. CNI source report
Case subjects
Accused
Charges: intentionally or recklessly causing serious harm to the baby on March 28, 2012 (Alleged Or Contested)
Plea: Not guilty
Places mentioned
Topics
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