A toddler is in protective custody after excessive spankings.

According to Police Captain Mike Sweeney, officers went to a home in southwest Salina after being contacted by the relative of a young female who was being punished with spanking.

Police arrested 30-year-old Adam Pritchard of Salina after medical personal at Salina Regional Health Center examined the toddler and found excessive bruising on her buttocks.

Police say Pritchard used his hand to spank the child.

The incidents occurred between April 29th and June 11th. The child was not admitted to the hospital.

Pritchard has been charged with one count of child abuse.