Man arrested on child abuse charges

HARDIN COUNTY, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) – A Hardin County father is behind bars after authorities say a dangerous social media “trick” left his two-month-old baby with fractured ribs.

Deputies say they were notified after the infant was treated at Norton Children’s Hospital in Louisville for healing rib fractures.

Investigators report the child’s father, Austin Webster, admitted to attempting a technique he saw online, claiming it would relieve the baby’s stomach issues. Officials say his rough handling likely caused the injuries.

Webster was arrested and charged with second-degree criminal abuse, a Class D felony.

Authorities are urging parents not to attempt unverified medical methods from social media and to always seek advice from licensed medical professionals.

The investigation remains ongoing.