Police in Brighton are urgently appealing for information after a disturbing incident in which a baby was reportedly assaulted in public.
Just before 5pm on Wednesday, April 9, Sussex Police were called to Bear Road, Brighton, following reports that a baby had been violently shaken and aggressively handled by a man in front of queuing traffic.
Officers quickly responded to the scene and arrested a 50-year-old man, who was taken into custody.
Following further investigation, a 38-year-old man and a 36-year-old woman – both from Brighton – were also arrested on suspicion of child neglect. They have since been released on bail pending ongoing enquiries.
In the early hours of Friday, April 11, Arthur Zagozdzon, 50, of Holland Road, Hove, was formally charged with assault, ill-treatment, neglect, or causing unnecessary suffering to a young person. He is due to appear at Brighton Magistrates’ Court later today.
The baby remains in hospital under medical supervision while further assessments are carried out.
Detective Inspector Pippa Nicklin, of the Safeguarding Investigations Unit, said:
“We understand that this is a distressing report, and we would like to reassure the public that the baby is receiving care in hospital, and that a full investigation is ongoing.
“It was reported that the assault occurred in public, in front of queueing traffic, and so we would like to appeal for any further witnesses, particularly anyone that may have dash cam footage.”
Anyone who witnessed the incident or has relevant footage is urged to contact Sussex Police online or by calling 101, quoting Operation Ingram.
