A 20-month-old child was brought to Miles Memorial Hospital in Damariscotta for an evaluation of a swollen left elbow on Friday, Dec. 5. The child also had extensive bruising to his face, torso and arms. After an examination, it was discovered the child had a broken arm just below their elbow.

This information was relayed to the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and eventually the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office for investigation.

There was a delay in reporting to law enforcement as there was some confusion as to where the child was actually residing.

On Monday, Dec. 8, the child was evaluated at the Spurwink Clinic in Portland. It was discovered the child had bruises in various stages of healing. The injuries were determined to be the result of physical abuse.

Investigators found the child had been staying temporarily with the child’s aunt and her boyfriend, Matthew Grasser Jr., 21, in Edgecomb, after being removed from their mother’s care in Portland by DHHS.

Grasser allegedly admitted to investigators that while home alone with the child he struck the child in the face because he was crying and pulled on his arm causing the broken bones.

Grasser was arrested and charged with one count of Class B aggravated assault. He was taken to Two Bridges Regional Jail where he is currently be held pending bail. The child has been returned to the care of the child’s mother and maternal grandparents by DHHS.

The investigation continues and further charges are likely as a result of the investigation. The lead investigator is Detective Sergeant Ron Rollins. A court date of Jan. 29, 2014 was assigned for the case.