Police Arrest Man For Abusing a 5 Year-old in St. Petersburg
Detectives arrested 41 year-old John Gerald Whelan, for aggravated child abuse with great bodily harm, and child neglect, of a 5 year old boy that was in his care.
Fire rescue and police were called to a residence in St. Petersburg at 7:42 p.m. Thursday, August 10, for a 5 year old boy having medical issues.
When the child was transported to All Children’s John Hopkins hospital, doctors discovered numerous physical injuries and detectives were called to investigate.
The child had bruising and trauma to the face, rib fractures, internal bleeding and damage to organs. He remains in critical condition this morning.
Investigators say Whelan struck the boy in the head and abdomen with his closed fist. The abuse occurred over the last several months and Whelan did not seek medical attention for the child.