A Kentucky man reportedly claimed he “disciplined” his minor son following a verbal dispute. The child is now fighting for his life after he lost consciousness and was rushed to the hospital, according to police.

The Lexington Herald-Leader reported that Joshua Dossey, 39, was charged with second-degree assault in connection with an incident Friday involving his son, whose age remains undisclosed. According to the arrest citation, a verbal disagreement turned violent when Dossey grabbed his son’s arm and they traded punches.

Police alleged that the grandmother called police after finding the Dossey standing over his child, who was unconscious on the floor with blood gushing from his head. Dossey fled the Louisville home, according to the newspaper.

How do you protect your children from predators? Join Nancy Grace and a team of world-class experts for the online course ‘Justice Nation: Crime Stops Here’.

Police apprehended the suspect the following day. Dossey reportedly told police that he “disciplined” and “restrained” his son after he spat on and hit him. WLKY reported that he’s accused of punching his son in the face until he lost consciousness.

Citing police, the Herald-Leader reported the child suffered a ruptured spleen. Police reportedly stated the chils has a “50-50 chance” of survival; his current condition is unknown.

WDRB reported that the boy’s mother, Ashley Delgado, was also arrested and charged with wanton endangerment for not calling the police.

Dossey pleaded not guilty during a court hearing on Monday. He’s being held on $250,000 bond.

Join Nancy Grace for her new video series new online video series designed to help you protect what you love most – your children.

[Featured Image: Joshua Dossey/Louisville Metro Corrections]