Ayer man accused of assault on baby

AYER, Mass. (AP) -- A 21-year-old Ayer man has been ordered held on $50,000 bail after pleading not guilty to raping a 14-month old child.

Prosecutors say Christopher D. Banks was taking care of the child on Wednesday until she was picked up by a caretaker. The caretaker became suspicious when changing the baby's diaper. The child was taken to a doctor, who determined the child's injuries indicated a sexual assault.

Banks turned himself in to police.

Prosecutors say they requested high bail for an "extremely disturbing case."

The Sun of Lowell reports that Banks' lawyer asked for lower bail, saying Banks has no prior record, gave police a statement, and has indicated his "remorse" and "regret."