Man who shook crying baby causing brain and eye bleeds spared immediate jail

MAN WHO SHOOK CRYING BABY CAUSING BRAIN AND EYE BLEEDS SPARED IMMEDIATE JAIL

A man named David Derbyshire, aged 39, was involved in a serious case of child abuse by causing injuries to a helpless baby on two separate occasions.

The injuries included bleeding on the brain and eyes, which required medical intervention such as the insertion of a shunt to drain cerebral fluid, and resulted in prolonged hospital treatment.

The court heard how a scan showed evidence of an earlier brain bleed, and further investigations revealed bleeding of the retina, both indicative of shaking.

Initially, the injuries led to some developmental delays.

Derbyshire admitted to causing grievous bodily harm during a court hearing.

He claimed the baby went limp after gulping milk and suggested others might be responsible, though this was not supported by medical evidence.

The child recovered well and was discharged, though there was a possibility of future learning, memory, and behavioral issues.

Derbyshire, who had no prior convictions, was sentenced to a two-year prison sentence, suspended for 21 months.

During this period, he is required to undergo mental health treatment, community service, and other courses, with the warning that any further crimes will activate the prison sentence.

The judge emphasized the severity of the harm caused but noted the injuries do not seem to be permanent and expressed hope there will be no long-term consequences.