Lowell Man Arraigned on Charges For Allegedly Assaulting Baby

LOWELL – A Lowell man was arraigned today on charges of allegedly violently shaking his infant son, causing catastrophic brain injuries, Middlesex District Attorney Marian T. Ryan informed the public today.

            Christopher Berry, 22, of Lowell, was arraigned in Lowell District Court on charges of assault and battery on a child causing substantial bodily injury.  Lowell District Court Judge Thomas Brennan ordered the defendant held on $500,000 cash bail with conditions to have no contact with the victim’s family.  In addition, the defendant’s bail on his pending cases was revoked.

            The defendant’s next court date is June 6 for a probable cause hearing.

            “This infant born was born March 5 and violently assaulted at just 9 and ½ weeks old, allegedly at the hands of his father,” District Attorney Ryan said.  “This baby suffered a horrible assault in his own home where he should have been safe and protected. Abusive head trauma is a horrific crime and we must continue to work with our healthcare, law enforcement and social service partners to help prevent these tragedies.”

            According to authorities, on Saturday, May 11, 2013, Lowell Police, Lowell Fire and paramedics responded to 215 Mammoth Road in Lowell for an unresponsive two month old male child.

            The infant was brought to Lowell General and transported to Tufts Floating Hospital for Children.  His injuries are consistent with non-accidental trauma.  The child remains hospitalized in critical condition.

            An investigation was immediately launched.  As a result of the investigation, Berry, the child’s father, was arrested.  It is alleged the defendant shook the baby with such force as to cause extensive and catastrophic brain injuries.

            The case is being investigated by State Police assigned to the Middlesex District Attorney’s Office and Lowell Police. 

            These charges are allegations and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

            The case was arraigned by Assistant District Attorney Katharine Folger.  The Victim Witness Advocate is Susie Marshall.