Bloomington, Indiana — An 18-year-old Indiana man is facing serious criminal charges after investigators say he admitted to repeatedly biting a 9-day-old infant, leaving the newborn with significant facial injuries. The allegations came to light after a pediatrician reported the child’s condition to authorities, prompting a criminal investigation.
Investigation Began After Pediatrician Reported Infant’s Injuries
According to court documents, the investigation began on July 14 after a pediatrician contacted Child Protective Services upon discovering concerning injuries on the newborn.
The report led the Bloomington Police Department to open an investigation into how the infant had sustained the injuries. Authorities have not publicly released the child’s identity or disclosed the infant’s current medical condition.
Police Say Suspect Admitted to Repeatedly Biting the Baby
Investigators identified the suspect as Kaden Manuel Lewis Shrum, 18.
According to police, Shrum admitted that the incident occurred around 4 a.m., allegedly telling investigators he first “nibbled” on the baby’s cheek before escalating to repeated bites in an effort to stop the infant from crying.
Court documents state that Shrum allegedly described the baby’s face as looking like “a busted up egg” after the assault. Those allegations have been included in charging documents and will ultimately be subject to the judicial process.
Arrest Made at Hospital
Police arrested Shrum at the hospital after the alleged incident. He has been charged with felony battery resulting in injury to a person under the age of 14, according to court records.
Authorities have not publicly stated whether Shrum is related to the infant, and investigators have not released additional details about the circumstances leading up to the alleged assault.
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The investigation remains ongoing.
Suspect Also Facing Other Criminal Cases
Court records indicate that Shrum was already facing separate criminal charges before the infant abuse case.
Those pending cases reportedly include felony battery with a deadly weapon, criminal recklessness, and a misdemeanor battery charge.
After posting a $5,500 bond on the child abuse charge on July 21, Shrum was subsequently re-arrested on a bond revocation warrant connected to the earlier pending cases.
Case Continues Through Indiana Courts
Prosecutors have not publicly disclosed additional evidence beyond the allegations contained in court filings, and no trial date has been announced.
As the criminal case proceeds, the allegations against Shrum will be examined in court, where he will have the opportunity to respond to the charges.
The infant’s condition has not been updated by authorities, and officials have not released further information about the child’s recovery.
What are your thoughts on this case? Do you believe penalties for crimes involving infants should be strengthened? Share your thoughts respectfully in the comments below.
