A Florida woman is facing serious charges after a 5-month-old baby was hospitalized with a fractured skull and multiple bruises, authorities said.
The St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office (LSCO) said in a Facebook post that a detective with the Fort Pierce Police Department alerted them on Thursday, Oct. 16, around 10:56 a.m. local time, after the infant was admitted to a local hospital “with serious injuries.”
According to investigators, the child suffered a fractured skull, along with bruises to the arm and leg.
Detective P. Taylor of the LSCO determined through interviews and evidence that the injuries occurred “during a domestic altercation.”
Authorities identified the suspect as Georgeina Hayes, 38. The sheriff’s office said Hayes allegedly got into a violent confrontation with another adult woman and tried to strangle her. The victim reportedly managed to break free, grabbed the baby, and fled to a bedroom for safety.
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“As she tried to close the door, Hayes began throwing punches, several of which struck the five-month-old infant. The blows resulted in the injuries to the infant,” the LSCO said.
Hayes was arrested and booked into the St. Lucie County Jail, where she faces charges of battery by strangulation (domestic) and aggravated child abuse. Her bond was set at $55,000, authorities said.
It is unclear if Hayes has an attorney or has entered a plea. Officials have not released details about the baby’s current condition or clarified Hayes’ relationship to the child.
“The St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office thanks FPPD for the swift coordination between agencies and remains committed to pursuing justice for the most vulnerable members of our community,” the agency added.
