More evidence needed in Okmulgee child abuse case

OKMULGEE, Okla. (AP) _ Investigators need new evidence to file charges in the rape of an 8-month-old girl, an Okmulgee County prosecutor says. <br><br>There was nothing in reports from the Oklahoma State

Friday, February 21st 2003, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

OKMULGEE, Okla. (AP) _ Investigators need new evidence to file charges in the rape of an 8-month-old girl, an Okmulgee County prosecutor says.

There was nothing in reports from the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation and the Henryetta Police Department to identify a suspect in the July attack, District Attorney Tom Giulioli said Thursday.

DNA evidence collected at the crime scene was inconclusive, Giulioli said. The baby's parents and other family members have submitted samples for DNA tests.

``Unless we get more information, we are not in a position to file charges on anyone,'' Giulioli said.

Authorities were notified after the infant's grandmother took her to an area hospital. The infant suffered broken ankles, a broken pelvis, a fractured hip and was saturated in blood from the July attack.

``The little girl suffered internal injuries and may never be able to have children,'' Giulioli said.

The child's parents told authorities they were sleeping in the next room when the assault occurred. The child and her older sister remain in foster care.

Prosecutors are considering terminating the parental rights, Giulioli said.