PHOENIX (AP) - A Phoenix man is accused of child abuse for allegedly biting his girlfriend’s 18-month-old son on the elbow.
Michael Helm had his initial court appearance Tuesday.
He was released on his own recognizance pending a June 2 status conference and June 9 preliminary hearing. Helm doesn’t have an attorney yet.
The 24-year-old Helm was arrested Monday by Phoenix police.
Child Protective Services had custody of the child until May 13.
CPS became involved after unexplained bruising was found on the child in December.
Court documents show the boy was brought to a doctor for pink eye last Friday.
The doctor noticed an adult-sized bite mark on the victim’s elbow and some bruises.
Authorities say Helm admitted to CPS that he bit the child but says it was an accident.
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