Eds: APNewsNow.

Fargo, N.D. (AP) Authorities say a Fargo couple face charges of child abuse or neglect after their 11-month-old son suffered skull fractures from falling out of bed. The boy's father had been convicted of child abuse in 2001.

Arrest warrants were issued for James Patterson and Brook Hanten. The couple, both 29, are accused of failing to provide a safe environment for their sons. The oldest is 2 years old.

Authorities said Hanten told investigators the 11-month-old had fallen out of bed at least four times. Doctors told police the boy had suffered skull fractures.

The children are in protective custody.

A woman who said she was Patterson's mother said he and Hanten were not available for comment.

Court documents say Patterson was sentenced to six months in jail after pleading guilty in 2001 to a felony child abuse charge for striking a 2-year-old boy in the face.

Information from: The Forum, http://www.in-forum.com (Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 01-08-09 0832CST | save this article / add to your favorites list