Man accused of killing Melbourne baby said he was spooked

Victorian child protection authorities received a report about a Melbourne baby two months before his alleged murder, a court has been told.

Six-month-old Chayse Dearing was found covered in bruises when emergency crews attended a Glenroy unit on the morning of June 26, 2016.

Dwayne Lindsay, 34, who was minding the baby at the time for his girlfriend, Michelle Dearing, is charged with murdering the infant.

Court documents allege child protection authorities received a report of concern in April 2016 about baby Chayse, based on transient living and drug use. However the report did not reach investigation stage.

Dwayne Lindsay, 34, (pictured) has been charged with the murder of his girlfriend’s baby

Ms Dearing (pictured) said Lindsay was previously violent to her and frustrated with Chayse

Ms Dearing (pictured) said Lindsay was previously violent to her and frustrated with Chayse

Six-month-old Chayse (pictured) allegedly had drug ice in his system when he died

Six-month-old Chayse (pictured) allegedly had drug ice in his system when he died

Chayse was found with bruising around his neck, a bump on his head, and trauma to his head and genitals.

Forensic paediatrician Geetika Badkar has told the Melbourne Magistrates Court the injuries were widespread and the child was possibly strangled and shaken.

Low levels of the illegal drug ice were also found in his system.

Lindsay, who is facing a committal hearing, claimed the injuries happened when he was spooked by a spider.

He told the child’s mum he jolted, causing Chayse to roll off a mattress and hit his head on a wall heater, Dr Badkar said, recounting her discussion with Ms Dearing at the Royal Children’s Hospital where Chayse’s life support was switched off after two days.

Ms Dearing told Dr Badkar she smoked ice with Lindsay and friends in the lounge room in the hours before she left Chayse alone with him to go shopping.

Medical experts cited by prosecutors say Chayse’s injuries were almost certainly caused by assault.

The hearing continues on Wednesday.

Michelle Dearing's (left) son Chayse Dearing (right) was found dead by emergency crews 2016

Michelle Dearing’s (left) son Chayse Dearing (right) was found dead by emergency crews 2016

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