Re: Force required for a spiral fracture

: Child exhibited no immediate sign of bruising or abrasions. Child appears to be normally developed for 6 months old. Child appears to be in the crawling stage and has not started to learn to walk.

: In addition to victim a 3 year old brother and the victim's mother were in the residence at the time of the injury. The mother alleges she was in the kitchen washing dishes when it happened. Indications at the scene tend to support that statement. Hot soapy dish water was in the sink and there were washed and rinsed wet dishes in the strainer waiting to be dried when officers arrived.

: My question is how much force would be required to cause such a fracture to an infant that age. Would it be possible for a 3 year old male to have sufficient strength to cause this injury? Can you think of any situation where the victim could have caused such an injury to himself?

: Thank you very much for your assistance.

: FJP