Kentucky Father Arrested After Social Media “Trick” Leaves Infant Hospitalized

HARDIN COUNTY, Ky. — A Hardin County man is facing criminal charges after attempting a social media trend on his two-month-old baby, leaving the child with serious injuries. The infant was taken to Norton Children’s Hospital in Louisville, where doctors discovered multiple rib fractures in various stages of healing. According to the Hardin County Sheriff’s Office, detectives and Child Protective Services (CPS) were alerted Wednesday after receiving a tip from hospital staff. Investigators spoke with the baby’s mother, who identified the child’s father, Austin Webster, as a possible suspect. Authorities then went to Webster’s home, where he admitted to trying a technique he had seen on social media, claiming he hoped it would help relieve the baby’s stomach issues. During questioning, Webster acknowledged that he handled the infant roughly and believed his actions may have caused the injuries. Webster was taken into custody and charged with second-degree criminal abuse, a Class D felony. The investigation remains ongoing. The Hardin County Sheriff’s Office issued a warning to the public, urging parents not to rely on unverified medical advice found online. “These kinds of social media tricks can lead to severe injuries, especially in infants and small children,” the department said in a statement. “Always consult a licensed medical professional for any concerns about a child’s health.” The baby remains hospitalized in Louisville and is currently recovering.