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Auburn Teen Charged With Harming Baby Cousin

An 18-year-old Auburn man charged with seriously injuring his 11-month-old cousin has been held for a 20-day psychiatric evaluation.

Christian McFadden pleaded not guilty Tuesday in Worcester Central District Court to charges including assault and battery on a child with injury.

The Worcester Telegram & Gazette reports prosecutor Courtney Price told the court a witness said McFadden violently shook the girl. Price said McFadden hasn't been taking his prescribed medications.

Family members have told reporters McFadden has mental health issues and wouldn't hurt the child intentionally.

McFadden was arrested last week after the girl was hospitalized with a cervical spine compression and fractures, as well as two skull fractures and two arm fractures that appeared older and had begun to heal.

State child welfare officials have removed three other young children from the home they share with McFadden.

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