Prison For Grandmother Who Shook, Blinded Baby

ORANGE COUNTY, NY — A 46-year-old grandmother who shook her 7-m0nth-old granddaughter so hard that it damaged the baby's brain was sentenced Tuesday to 12 years in state prison.

"There is no excuse for inflicting these types of injuries on a helpless infant," said District Attorney David Hoovler. “It is even more unthinkable that these injuries could have been inflicted by the person who was primarily responsible for this child’s wellbeing. Help is available within Orange County for those who believe they are unable to care for their children."

Kimberly Bennett of Middletown was the primary caregiver for the baby. The assault, which occurred on Feb. 22, 2020, at Bennett’s home on Bedford Avenue, resulted in the child suffering serious physical injury including damage to her brain and eyes, and rendered the child blind.

Middletown police officers and ambulance personnel responded to Bennett’s residence and found the 7-month-old unresponsive and exhibiting facial bruising.

A joint investigation was conducted by the City of Middletown Police Department and the Orange County District Attorney’s Office, with assistance from the New York State Police. The results were presented to an Orange County Grand Jury which indicted Bennett on charges including Assault in the First Degree. Bennett was arrested by the Middletown Police Department.

On Oct. 27, Bennett pleaded guilty to a count of first-degree assault. SEE: Grandmother Pleads Guilty To Assaulting Granddaughter

Those needing help in Orange County can call 311.