Woman Found Guilty of Abusing 6-Month-Old Son, Causing Brain Damage

A 29-year-old Providence woman has been found guilty of abusing her 6-month-old son, who suffered permanent brain damage and broken bones.

The state attorney general's office says a Superior Court jury convicted Danielle Lefebvre of first-degree child abuse Tuesday after just over an hour of deliberation following a week-long trial. Sentencing is set for May.

Prosecutors say Lefebvre violently shook her son in October 2011, causing a skull fracture, rib fractures, bleeding of the brain and seizures. He suffered permanent brain damage and delayed development.

Lefebvre originally told hospital personnel that she awoke to the baby crying on the bedroom floor. But doctors determined the baby's injuries were consistent with abuse.

Police say Lefebvre later admitted she abused the child, who has since been adopted.

Lefebvre's lawyer declined to comment.