A potential resolution to the case of Gregory Higgins, a man accused of killing his 7-week-old daughter, was discussed in court by his defense attorney, David A. Torres. Torres mentioned that he provided the prosecution with a detailed medical report and they are considering the possibility of resolving the case without going to trial. The attorney stated the need for more time to discuss this option with his client before reaching an agreement. Judge John W. Lua scheduled a hearing for June 6 to determine if a resolution has been reached or if a trial date will be set. Higgins, who has pleaded not guilty to charges of murder and assault on a child under 8 resulting in death, is currently held on $2 million bail.
The tragic incident unfolded on September 15, 2021, when police responded to a call of a baby not breathing at a residence in northwest Bakersfield. The baby, who had Down Syndrome, was rushed to a hospital where medical professionals discovered injuries consistent with child abuse, leading to her unfortunate demise. Court documents revealed that the infant had suffered skull fractures and brain bleeding. Higgins, the father, is alleged to have caused these injuries. Despite the seriousness of the accusations, the possibility of a resolution without a trial is being explored, as mentioned by Torres in court.
During police questioning, Higgins stated that he was at home with the baby while his wife and their other children were out getting lunch. He recounted that the child began fussing in her bassinet, prompting him to hold her. Higgins claimed that the baby suddenly stopped breathing, leading him to call 911 and administer CPR until help arrived. However, a follow-up interview with investigators revealed a troubling incident from the previous month where Higgins admitted to accidentally bumping the baby’s head on a glass table while taking her out of the bassinet. This incident, along with other unintentional actions during CPR, may have resulted in the fatal injuries suffered by the infant.
In light of the serious charges against him, Higgins maintained his plea of not guilty to both murder and assault on a child under 8 resulting in death. The complexities of the case, including the detailed medical report provided to the prosecution by his attorney, have raised the possibility of a resolution prior to a trial. Judge Lua’s decision to schedule a hearing on June 6 indicates a willingness to explore this option before proceeding with a formal trial. Despite the tragic loss of the baby, the legal process must ensure a fair and just resolution for all parties involved.
As the case of Gregory Higgins unfolds in the Bakersfield court system, the question of justice for the victim and accountability for the accused looms large. The decision on whether to pursue a trial or seek a resolution will likely shape the outcome of this heartbreaking case. The discussion between defense attorney Torres, the prosecution, and Higgins himself will play a crucial role in determining the path forward. With the next hearing set for June 6, all eyes will be on the courtroom as the fate of Gregory Higgins and the tragic loss of his 7-week-old daughter hangs in the balance.
