Dayne Paulson, a 23-year-old man from Wisconsin, is facing serious charges after being accused of repeatedly abusing his newborn son, resulting in significant injuries. Paulson is currently in custody at Chippewa County Jail after being charged with repeated physical abuse of a child causing great bodily harm.
The Incident and Discovery of Abuse
On April 25, 2024, police responded to a call from staff at Marshfield Hospital, who reported a potential child abuse case. A woman brought her 27-day-old newborn to the hospital, citing injuries including a cut above his eye, bruised eye, and injuries to his septum. Further medical examination revealed numerous other injuries on the baby, including a skull fracture.
After the newborn was transferred to a pediatric intensive care unit for additional care, doctors discovered that he had three skull fractures, along with fractures to his collarbone, leg, nose, and a rib.
Paulson’s Confession
After his arrest, Paulson allegedly told police that the baby was “being dramatic and not liking his diaper changed.” However, in conversations with social workers on April 27, Paulson reportedly admitted that he had hurt the baby because he wouldn’t stop crying.
Paulson allegedly confessed to punching the baby in the eye and head-butting him repeatedly. He also admitted to squeezing the baby with such force that he injured his own ribs in the process.
In a disturbing demonstration, Paulson was asked to show how he treated the baby on a Kleenex box, and according to police, Paulson’s demonstration caused the Kleenex box to be crushed, illustrating the level of force he applied.
Baby’s Condition and Potential Recovery
According to WQOW, the doctor who treated the baby stated that while the newborn had a good chance of recovery, it was still too early to determine whether there would be permanent damage due to his young age. The baby remains under medical care, with doctors monitoring his recovery.
Legal Proceedings and Bail
Paulson made his first court appearance on May 1, where his bond was increased from $50,000 cash to $200,000. He remains in custody at Chippewa County Jail. Paulson is scheduled for additional court appearances on May 9 and May 26, as legal proceedings continue.
The case has drawn significant attention due to the severity of the abuse and the young age of the victim. Authorities are continuing their investigation, and the community is left reeling from the allegations of such horrific violence against an innocent child.
