Child's injuries indicated "non-accidental injury", retired paediatrician tells trial

A retired consultant paediatrician has told Dublin Circuit Criminal Court that the pattern of injuries sustained by a ten-month-old child indicated non-accidental harm. Dr Christopher Woods, who reviewed the child's medical files, stated that the combination of head injuries, eye trauma, rib fractures, bruising and other injuries occurring simultaneously was consistent with non-accidental injury. Sandra Higgins, aged 36, of The Beeches, Drumgola Wood, Cavan Town, has pleaded not guilty to intentionally or recklessly causing serious harm to the child on 28 March 2012 whilst minding her at her home. A defence neurologist suggested that whilst accidental injury could theoretically cause such symptoms, this would be extremely rare. The trial heard closing speeches are scheduled to begin before Judge Martin Nolan on Tuesday. A court order prohibits publication of the child's identity.