MILWAUKEE, WI – A local man faces multiple charges including child abuse resulting in great bodily harm after allegedly throwing an infant against a wall, an act born out of frustration from losing a video game, authorities reported. Jalin A. White, a 20-year-old Milwaukee resident, was taken into custody following the distressing incident that left an 8-month-old baby with life-threatening injuries.
The event occurred at a home on the 7000 block of 42nd Street. White was reportedly caring for the infant while the child’s mother was at work. Officials stated that the child, referred to only by his initials J.W., was in apparent good health prior to the incident. The seriousness of the situation came to light when the child’s mother came home to find her baby barely responsive and struggling to breathe.
As the investigations unfolded, medical assessments disclosed that the young victim suffered multiple critical injuries, including skull fractures and several broken ribs. This raised concerns about the possible history of mistreatment the baby might have endured under White’s care.
During his initial court appearance before Milwaukee County Court Commissioner Andrea Bolender, White’s actions were graveled into perspective as his statements during the interrogation were recounted. White eventually admitted that the baby was injured as a result of being thrown against a wall in frustration over a video game. “My son hit his head on the wall. He hit his head hard on the wall, bro,” he reportedly confessed.
This case was highlighted by Milwaukee County Assistant District Attorney Madeline Witte as reflecting “a severe level of violence against an innocent, infant child.” The courtroom observed an emotional White, who appeared distressed, frequently shaking his head and wiping tears from his eyes.
Commissioner Bolender sternly noted that should the infant succumb to his injuries, the charges against White might be escalated, potentially leading to a life sentence. Currently, White faces a penalty that could surpass 60 years in prison if convicted of the charges as they stand.
A subsequent court hearing for White has been scheduled for Friday. Amid the ongoing legal proceedings, indications have emerged that the child’s mother could also face charges linked to the incident, although specifics have yet to be disclosed.
This tragic case has stirred discussions within the community and among child advocacy groups about the responsibility of caregivers and the hidden perils of unaddressed anger and frustration. It prompts a necessary conversation on the safeguards that need to be in place to protect the most vulnerable from such acts of senseless violence.