An 11-month-old baby girl was violently raped and suffered life-threatening injuries, according to court documents.
Michael Christopher Mullen, 20, of Bay Minette, was arrested in connection to the December 13 incident.
The child was left in his care while the mother went to work, according to court documents. When the mother returned to her Robertsdale home, the baby girl was crying, and Mullen was asleep.
The mother told investigators that when she changed the baby’s diaper, she found blood and rushed the child to the emergency room. Hospital staff performed a sexual assault exam and found lacerations and bruises. She also had lacerations in her abdominal cavity that required emergency surgery to prevent a life-threatening infection.
Doctors concluded the baby was violently sexually assaulted.
A hair that was found on the child is being tested for DNA.
Mullen was arrested and charged with aggravated child abuse the next day. He had an Aniah’s Law hearing Thursday and was denied bond. More charges could be added.
Mullen denied responsibility for the rape.
To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email erica.thomas@1819news.com.
Don’t miss out! Subscribe to our newsletter and get our top stories every weekday morning or become a member to gain access to exclusive content and 1819 News merch.
