FLORIDA — A Hillsborough County man has been arrested and charged in connection with the abuse of a 7-month-old infant who suffered severe injuries, authorities said.
According to the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, the investigation began on Jan. 18 after the child was found to have serious injuries, including a brain bleed and a spinal injury. Deputies said the injuries occurred while the infant was in the care of Robert Weatherholt, 38.
Detectives and medical professionals determined that Weatherholt’s explanation of what happened did not match the extent and severity of the child’s injuries, investigators said.
Following a months-long investigation, Weatherholt was arrested Friday and charged with aggravated child abuse.
“This child was placed in the care of someone expected to protect them, and instead, they suffered unimaginable harm,” Sheriff Chad Chronister said in a statement. “Thanks to the tireless work of our detectives over months of investigation, we are one step closer to justice for this child, and this individual will face the full extent of the law.”
Authorities have not released additional details about the child’s current condition. The investigation remains ongoing.
