Cops Say He Beat A Child

John Gerald Whelan, arrested in St. Petersburg, Fla., for aggravated child abuse.St. Petersburg, Fla.-(Newsradio 970 WFLA)-A 41 year-old man is in jail here for aggravated child abuse with great bodily harm and child neglect.

Police officers say John Gerald Whelan was supposed to be caring for a five year-old boy, but beat the child in the head and abdomen with his closed fist.  Investigators say the abuse occurred over the last several months.

Fire-rescue was finally called to the residence on a report of the little boy having medical issues.  After being transported to All Children's Hospital, doctors found bruising and trauma to the face, rib fractures, internal bleeding and damage to his organs.

Photo courtesy St. Petersburg Police Department



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