FAYETTE COUNTY, WV (LOOTPRESS) – Two individuals are facing serious felony charges after a three-month-old infant suffered multiple fractures, brain injuries, and signs of repeated abuse over a period of several months, according to investigators.
Authorities say the alleged abuse occurred between December 2025 and February 2026 and involved the infant who was under the care of Brian M. Farley and the child’s mother, Brittney Crookshanks.
Infant Hospitalized With Severe Injuries
On February 23, 2026, Farley and Crookshanks took the infant to CAMC Women and Children’s Hospital in Charleston for medical evaluation. Doctors quickly discovered serious injuries, including a fractured left clavicle and intracranial bleeding.
Due to the severity of the injuries, the infant was transferred to Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, where additional trauma was uncovered. Medical professionals identified:
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A fractured right humerus (arm)
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A fractured right tibia (leg)
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Retinal hemorrhages, often associated with abusive head trauma
Medical experts determined the injuries occurred at different times and were not consistent with accidental causes, indicating a pattern of repeated abuse.
Defendant Admits to Rough Handling
During a recorded interview with law enforcement, Brian M. Farley admitted to handling the infant in a forceful and aggressive manner.
According to investigators, Farley described actions that included:
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Placing the infant’s arms behind her back
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Applying pressure to her legs while restraining her
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Performing “bicycle kick” motions that caused bruising
Farley reportedly stated he “takes full responsibility for bruising the child’s legs” and acknowledged that his actions could have caused the broken bones.
Witnesses also told investigators they observed Farley behaving roughly and aggressively toward the infant while at the hospital.
Mother Accused of Failing to Protect Child
The child’s mother, Brittney Crookshanks, is accused of knowingly allowing the abuse to occur and failing to intervene.
According to investigators, Crookshanks admitted she was aware Farley was “more aggressive” than she was comfortable with when handling the infant and that she had seen bruising on the child’s legs.
Authorities say she did not report the abuse or take steps to protect the child.
Investigators further allege Crookshanks participated in providing false information to hospital staff and Child Protective Services, claiming the infant’s injuries were caused by a fall from a couch—a story she later admitted was fabricated at Farley’s direction.
Charges Filed
Brian M. Farley is charged with:
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Inflicting serious bodily injury to a child
Brittney Crookshanks is charged with:
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Child neglect resulting in serious bodily injury
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Permitting abuse by another individual
Both charges are violations of West Virginia law related to child abuse and neglect causing serious injury.
Investigation Findings
Based on the investigation, law enforcement concluded that the infant’s injuries were the result of ongoing abuse, not a single incident. The combination of medical evidence, witness statements, and admissions from both defendants led authorities to pursue charges.
Ongoing Case
Both individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. The condition of the infant has not been publicly released.
The investigation remains ongoing.
