Police: Newborn child 'lucky to be alive' after father breaks 27 of her bones

A Richmond father is facing several charges after police say he severely injured a newborn girl.

An arrest report states Sean Dykes, 24, is charged with criminal abuse and domestic violence after paramedics and officers were called to a home on Keri Anne Court for a 3-month-old child with head injuries.

"She was beaten with his fist in her head. She was picked up and slammed on the floor several times. It’s unimaginable that a father could do this to their daughter," Richmond Police Assistant Chief Rodney Richardson said.

The report states the girl had approximately 27 bone fractures including her skull, ribs, spine, arms, legs, hands and feet. The girl also had retinal hemorrhaging, bruises and possible internal injuries.

“Luckily, with a lot of prayer, I think, and some blessing, she’s still alive," Richardson said. "Right now other than some long-term effects she may be doing OK.”

Police say Dykes, the child's primary caregiver, was the only person who was with the newborn when she was injured.

Dykes told officers he has multiple personality disorder, had a lot of stress and went into a rage. He went as far as to describe the violent acts using a teddy bear and apologizing for his actions.

An assault charge comes from a March incident where Dykes is accused of pushing his girlfriend and the girl's mother to the floor and strangled her.

Dykes was arrested Thursday and was placed in the Madison County Detention Center where he is being held without bond. He declined our request for an interview from jail.