The Morning Edition A Melbourne father accused of a crime. An American lawyer thinks he's innocent
Oct 12, 2025
Michael Bachelard, an investigative journalist and senior writer, dives deep into the controversial world of shaken baby syndrome. He discusses the troubling shift from education to prosecution surrounding this diagnosis. Bachelard highlights ongoing international debates, U.S. legal battles, and the doubts raised by Australian experts. He shares a harrowing case involving a couple unfairly accused and explores the emotional trauma they endured. With calls for a formal inquiry, he questions whether innocent people are being wrongfully convicted.
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Origins Of The Diagnosis
- Shaken baby syndrome began as a 1970s medical theory linking shaking to subdural bleeding and brain injury.
- The diagnosis evolved into a legal label built mainly around a triad of symptoms: subdural hemorrhage, retinal hemorrhage and brain swelling.
Central Controversy
- The key controversy is whether the medical signs reliably indicate abuse or allow wrongful convictions.
- Diagnosing Murder investigates whether the triad truly proves deliberate harm or if miscarriages of justice occur.
No Clear Case Count
- Reliable counts of abusive head trauma cases in Australia are unavailable and estimates vary by clinician.
- Reported hospital cases are only the visible tip, with many child-protection matters handled out of public view.