Wed Sep 11 09:22:58 UTC 2024: ## Co Antrim Couple on Trial for Allegedly Inflicting “Catalogue of Injuries” on Infant
**Newry, Northern Ireland** – A Co Antrim couple, Amanda Fulton (35) and Christopher Fulton (35), are on trial at Newry Crown Court accused of inflicting multiple fractures and other injuries on a young infant, leaving the child close to death.
The prosecution alleges that the child suffered a fractured skull, bleeding on the brain and retinas, a lacerated liver, nearly 30 rib fractures, and fractures to both legs, among other injuries. These injuries, according to the prosecution, are consistent with blunt force trauma, potentially caused by a punch, a throw, or being dropped on a hard surface.
The couple is charged with causing grievous bodily harm with intent, causing or allowing the child to suffer significant physical harm, and two counts of child cruelty.
The alleged abuse is said to have occurred between October 17th and November 8th, 2019. The infant was initially taken to the Causeway Hospital on November 7th after the father reported the child was unwell and not drinking properly. Doctors at the Causeway discovered the fractured skull and transferred the child to the Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children, where the extent of the injuries was revealed.
The prosecution claims that the injuries were inflicted by one or both defendants, while the other was present and aware of the abuse. No explanation for the injuries has been provided by the couple, despite being questioned by medical professionals and police.
The trial is expected to last up to four weeks and will include evidence from a consultant paediatric radiologist and a neurosurgeon who will discuss the timing, cause, and severity of the injuries. The radiologist, according to the prosecution, believes the rib fractures were caused on at least two separate occasions, indicating ongoing abuse.
The judge presiding over the case, Peter Irvine, emphasized to the jury the importance of remaining impartial despite the emotional nature of the charges and the evidence. He urged them to assess the evidence calmly and avoid any feelings of sympathy or prejudice.
First Piper 