Portland, OR – A disturbing case in Portland, Oregon, has resulted in a man being sentenced to over a decade in prison after he inflicted life-threatening injuries on his 20-month-old son by punching him hard enough to perforate the child’s small intestine.
Joseph Washington was convicted of first-degree assault and sentenced to 121 months in prison following a jury’s verdict earlier this month. The violent incident, which occurred on April 4, 2024, highlights serious concerns about child abuse and the importance of swift action in child protection cases.
A Harrowing Incident and Immediate Medical Emergency
The child’s mother had sole custody, and Joseph Washington, who was occasionally responsible for watching the toddler, was caring for him at his girlfriend’s home when the attack happened. Washington later informed the mother that the boy was “throwing up significantly”.
Despite the mother’s urgent request to take the child to a hospital immediately, Washington initially refused and only brought the boy back to her. Recognizing the severity of the situation, the mother urgently took the child to the emergency room, where doctors discovered a perforation of the small intestine caused by blunt force trauma.
“The child underwent immediate surgery once it was discovered that his intestine was perforated and fluid and air was leaking into his abdomen… highly concerning for child physical abuse,” prosecutors noted.
This injury was so severe that the child could neither eat nor hold down food, as bile was leaking into his digestive system, posing an immediate risk to his life.
Confession and Legal Proceedings
Washington admitted to the boy’s mother that he became frustrated because the child was “bothering him that night” and consequently punched the toddler twice in the stomach.
The prosecution emphasized the gravity of Washington’s actions and his history of criminal offenses, including assault, kidnapping, and sex trafficking of children, underscoring the risks he posed to the child and the community.
Deputy District Attorney Mihnea Moga said, “The defendant’s violence nearly killed this child… Her decision to take him to the hospital saved his life. The verdict represents accountability for his gruesome behavior. Protecting children is what the community is tasked with.”
Protecting Children and Holding Offenders Accountable
This case serves as a stark reminder of the critical need for vigilance in child welfare cases and the importance of legal accountability for those who harm children. The community and legal system must continue to prioritize child protection to prevent similar tragedies.
- Defendant: Joseph Washington
- Victim: 20-month-old son
- Date of incident: April 4, 2024
- Charges: First-degree assault
- Sentence: 121 months (over 10 years) in prison
- Injury: Small intestine perforation requiring immediate surgery
What Do You Think About This Case?
Cases of child abuse are deeply troubling and highlight the need for awareness and intervention. What are your thoughts on how communities and legal systems can better protect children from abuse? Share your opinions and experiences in the comments below.