A heartbreaking story has surfaced from Lee’s Summit, a suburb of Kansas City, Missouri, where a father is facing serious charges for abusing his tiny two-month-old daughter. The 20-year-old dad, Richard A. Leonard, was arrested after doctors discovered the baby had 14 fractures all over her fragile body.
The ordeal began when Leonard and his wife took their baby girl to a routine doctor’s appointment. The doctor noticed bruises on the baby and urged the couple to take her to the hospital immediately. Instead of following the advice, the parents refused, prompting the doctor to call the Department of Family Services (DFS) hotline to report suspected abuse.
Police went to the family’s home for a welfare check. The mother, holding the baby, answered the door, and officers noted that the child appeared calm at the time. Later that evening, around 8 p.m., the parents finally took her to the hospital. There, doctors found shocking injuries: fractures in her arms, legs, ribs, and fingers, along with bruises on her face, shoulder, and back.
Initially, Leonard claimed he had accidentally dropped the baby after tripping. When questioned further about the severity of the injuries, he changed his story, saying he had fallen on top of her. However, medical professionals quickly determined that the injuries were not consistent with those explanations. The fractures were at various stages of healing, which suggested ongoing abuse. Doctors described the injuries as classic signs of abuse rather than accidents.
In a police interview, Leonard eventually admitted to harming his daughter, referred to in court documents as “V1.” He said he was overwhelmed by stress, lack of sleep, and his anger issues. He explained that the baby’s constant crying during tasks like diaper changes and dressing had frustrated him. Leonard said he used more force than necessary during these moments, describing how he would get angry when the baby squirmed or resisted. He admitted to feeling bad immediately afterward but struggled to manage his emotions.
Leonard also revealed that he had been abused as a child and placed in foster care. He admitted that he was resorting to harmful coping mechanisms from his past, like pulling out his own hair to deal with stress. He said the family’s recent move to a new home only added to his emotional burden.
The baby’s mother told investigators she couldn’t believe Leonard was capable of such actions. She emphasized that she herself hadn’t hurt the baby but admitted her husband was struggling with personal issues.
Following his arrest, Leonard was taken to the Jackson County Correctional Facility and later released after posting a $50,000 bond. A judge has ordered him to have no contact with his wife or child while out on bond. The baby is now in the custody of the Department of Family Services, ensuring her safety.
Leonard is due in court on Monday to face the charges. This devastating case serves as a stark reminder of the pressures that can come with parenting and the importance of seeking help before situations spiral out of control.
