Santa Ana Man Charged in Connection with Pummeling of Infant

A 30-year-old Santa Ana man accused of pummeling his infant daughter, who is fighting for her life in a hospital, was charged today with attempted murder and torture.

Andres Tafoya was also charged with child abuse and endangerment and domestic violence, both felonies, according to court records. He also faces sentencing enhancements for great bodily injury.

Tafoya made his first appearance in court today when his arraignment was rescheduled for Nov. 22.

While the victim's mother was at work Friday morning, Tafoya was babysitting the girl by himself, said Santa Ana police Cpl. Anthony Bertagna.

Tafoya is accused of punching the baby's head multiple times, Bertagna said.

The suspect brought the baby to a hospital, where she remained in critical condition today, Bertagna said. Tafoya left the hospital before police arrived, Bertagna said.

Tafoya and his girlfriend have another child together, Bertagna said.

In 2011, Tafoya was charged with two counts of domestic violence and one count of disturbing the peace, all misdemeanors. However, the domestic violence charges were dropped Oct. 24, 2011, when he pleaded guilty to disturbing the peace, according to court records.

-- City News Service