Trial set for man accused of infant’s death

Trial set for man accused of infant’s death

SALIX, Pa. (AP) — A western Pennsylvania man will go on trial in September on charges that he shook his 7-week-old son so violently he broke the infant’s legs and inflicted fatal brain injuries.

The Tribune-Democrat of Johnstown reports today that the trial of 24-year-old Justin Charles will begin Sept. 17.

Charles is charged with criminal homicide, aggravated assault and other crimes in the infant’s death in December.

Prosecutors say Charles initially told police he found the boy limp while the child’s mother left their residence. But police say that Charles allegedly confessed to violently shaking the baby because he was upset after his wife and mother got in an argument.

Patricia Moore, an assistant public defender who represents Charles, questioned whether his statement had been given voluntarily.