TWENTYNINE PALMS GRANDMOTHER ACCUSED OF CHILD ABUSE

A Twentynine Palms grandmother was arrested in July, accused of abusing an eight-month-old baby. According to a Sheriff’s report, the baby was brought by family members to Loma Linda University Medical Center July 24 for an x-ray exam. During the medical exam, pediatricians found a fracture to the baby’s right arm, which they felt was consistent with suspected child abuse. Investigators determined that the injury happened when the baby was in the care of Felicia Howard, 49, who is the baby’s paternal grandmother. Howard was arrested the next day for investigation of felony child abuse. She was booked at the Central Detention Center, but released August 1 on her own recognizance following a preliminary hearing. Her next court appearance is set for August 21.