January 3, 2008
News Story

Hardy Man Indicted in Toddler Abuse Case

BEDFORD, VA - A Hardy man accused of repeatedly punching a toddler in the head was indicted by a Bedford County grand jury Wednesday.

Robert Lewis Evans, 23, of the 11600 block of Hardy Road, was indicted on one charge each of felony malicious wounding, child abuse and child neglect, Deputy Commonwealth's Attorney Wes Nance said.

According to Nance and Maj. Ricky Gardner of the Bedford County Sheriff's Office, Evans was arrested Nov. 8 after his girlfriend's child was taken to the hospital with severe head injuries. Workers at Carilion Roanoke Community Hospital reported the injuries to police on Nov. 7.

Nance said Evans admitted punching the 17-month-old three times. The prosecutor said the incident was not reported for more than a day and that once they took him to the hospital, inadequate information was given to workers there as to the nature of the child's injuries.

The child has been in the custody of Bedford County Social Services since early November.

Evans is being held at the Bedford Adult Detention Center without bond. His trial is scheduled for Feb. 26 at 9 a.m.

Story Courtesy of The News Advance
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