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Hung Jury In Case Of Child Minder Accused Of Shaking Baby

The jury in the trial of a registered child minder accused of shaking a baby in her care has failed to reach a verdict.

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Sandra Higgins from The Beeches, Drumgola Woods in Cavan town had denied intentionally or recklessly causing serious harm to the ten month old baby at her home on March 2012.

After a day and a half considering the case, the Jury of 8 men and 4 women told Judge Patricia Ryan that they had failed to reach a unanimous or a majority verdict and felt that even with more time, they would be unable to do so.

Sandra Higgins gave no reaction as the brief statement was read to the court – the Judge thanked the Jury for their duty and directed them not to discuss the case with anyone.

The ten month old baby presented at Cavan General Hospital on the 28th of March with a brain bleed, detached retina and bruised rib.

During the trial, prosecutors alleged it was a clear case of shaken baby syndrome, the defence however claimed that the injuries were consistent with a head trauma and could have been the reactivation of an old injury.

The case will appear on the court list again for July Second, when it’s likely to be listed for a retrial. 

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