Downers Grove Man Shook Daughter, Caused Severe Brain Injuries

DOWNERS GROVE, IL — A Downers Grove man has been sentenced to 12 years in prison after he violently shook his 3-month old daughter and caused severe brain injuries. Timothy Churchill, 22, of the 4200 block of Lindley, pleaded guilty to one felony count of aggravated battery to a child in connection to the incident, which took place on Jan. 23, 2016.

Police say the 3-month old girl was unresponsive when Churchill and the daughter's mother, who lives in Naperville, rushed the child to Edward Hospital in Naperville. The infant was then rushed to Lurie Children's Hospital, where she underwent emergency surgery to alleviate intercranial pressure. Her injuries included retinal hemorraghing and bilateral subdural hematomas, according to police.

After an investigation, Naperville Police determined Churchill "violently shook his daughter, causing significant head injuries."

After the sentencing hearing Friday, DuPage County State's Attorney Robert Berlin said, "The sentence handed down by Judge Kinsella this morning underscores the severity of the injuries that Mr. Churchill inflicted upon his own infant daughter. Child abuse has no place in a civilized society and remains a top priority in my office as the victims in such cases are arguably society’s most vulnerable."

Churchill must serve 85% of his 12-year sentence before he is eligible for parole.

>>Image via DuPage County Sheriff's Office