‘Frustrated’ Abilene Dad Broke Newborn’s Legs Trying to Force Bowel Movement, Police Say

ABILENE, TX — An Abilene man has been arrested and charged with felony injury to a child after allegedly abusing his 6-week-old daughter, causing multiple fractures to her ribs and legs, according to police and court records.

Rodolfo E. Rosette was taken into custody on Monday and is currently being held in the Taylor County Jail on a $100,000 bond. He faces a first-degree felony charge that carries a possible life sentence under Texas law.

According to investigators, Rosette admitted to becoming “frustrated” with the infant and “gripping” her too tightly. He allegedly told police he had pulled her legs in an effort to stimulate a bowel movement, resulting in fractures to both her femur and tibia. He also reportedly said he buckled her into a car seat with straps so tight she “squealed” in pain.

The child was taken to Cook Children’s Medical Center in Fort Worth earlier this month with severe injuries. Doctors discovered signs of prolonged abuse, including at least 17 rib fractures in various stages of healing, a torn frenulum, bruises, and signs of malnourishment.

A frenulum is the fold of tissue that secures the tongue to the floor of the mouth. According to information, the torn frenulum was likely caused by Rosette forcing the baby to keep a bottle in her mouth. There was also blood in the child’s vomit and feces.

Authorities said the child’s injuries were consistent with physical abuse and prompted medical staff to contact the Abilene Police Department. The victim was removed from Rosette’s custody, and after three weeks of care, she was reportedly gaining weight and not suffering additional injuries.

Police said Rosette admitted to using excessive force while trying to care for the infant and confirmed that the car seat was strapped so tightly that officers could barely fit their hands between the straps and the seat.