Queens DA: Newborn Allegedly Abused By Parents 'Suffered Extensively'
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork/AP) -- Authorities say the parents of a 6-week-old baby who was severely battered and malnourished could face up to 25 years in prison if they're convicted.
Queens District Attorney Richard A. Brown said Wednesday that Joyce Nazareth and Victor Lugo are being held without bail while awaiting a Sept. 16 court appearance.
Brown said the newborn, Liam Lugo, "allegedly suffered extensively at the hands of the very people who should have loved him the most."
"In addition to multiple fractures throughout his body, his nose eroded as a result of severe infections and he will be required to undergo multiple reconstructive surgeries," Brown said. "The infant was so malnourished when he was admitted to a local hospital for treatment that he weighed less than he did at birth."
Prosecutors also allege that the baby's parents failed to seek immediate medical treatment.
Liam was admitted to a hospital on Aug. 22 and is still hospitalized. Brown said he will need long-term feeding rehabilitation, antibiotic therapy in addition to the multiple reconstructive surgeries to his nose.
His parents are both charged with first-degree assault, first-degree reckless endangerment and endangering the welfare of a child. Nazareth is also charged with second-degree assault.
The parents' attorneys did not immediate respond to requests for comment on their behalf.
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