By P.J. DeCordova-Boyd
A Hartford father was arrested on Friday on charges stemming from the death of his 2-½ month old baby.
The Department of Children and Families initially began investigating after they believed the baby’s death was due to SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome). However an autopsy conducted on Wednesday, a day after the infant’s death revealed blunt force trauma to the head.
DCF stated that they have been involved with the family since the baby’s birth in December, when the mother Shana Nelson gave birth prematurely, and both mother and son tested positive for cocaine.
The baby was hospitalized for several weeks after his birth and Nelson did visit the infant regularly according to DCF.
DCF also stated their main concern was that both parents Shana and Anthony Nelson were addicted to drugs.
The Hartford Courant reports that according to a warrant, on the day of his son’s death Anthony Nelson admitted to not taking his medication and drinking.
Nelson told police he was too intoxicated from drinking so much at his Capital Ave apartment. He reportedly awoke from sleeping for five hours to get another beer when he heard the baby crying. Nelson told police he picked up the infant after walking into the room and as he was walking out he slipped on the hardwood floor and fell on top of the baby’s head. According to the Courant, the warrant goes on to say the child started to gasp for air and his arms were twitching and shaking. Nelson put the baby back in his crib face down and went back to sleep according to police.
The baby’s mother Shana Nelson found the infant when she awoke to get her two other children ages 3 and 2 ready for school.
The infant was taken to the hospital where he was pronounced dead.
DCF stated they did not get an abuse and neglect report from the hospital but was notified that the death appeared to be SIDS related.
DCF Commissioner Joette Katz has ordered a review of this case to determine what could have been done differently to protect the child.
http://www.nbcconnecticut.com/news/local/118712034.html
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