Man accused of severely abusing toddler could face a longer sentence
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IDAHO FALLS — The Idaho Falls man accused of severely abusing a toddler could spend additional time in prison if convicted.
James H. Dunkle Jr. 30, has now been charged with felony injury to a child with an enhancement of infliction of great bodily injury, according to court documents obtained by EastIdahoNews.com.
Bonneville County Deputy Prosecutor J. Micheal McCracken filed a motion to amend the criminal complaint on Feb. 26, adding the felony enhancement. Previously, Dunkle was just charged with felony injury to a child. The infliction of great bodily injury enhancement means Dunkle could spend an additional 20 years in prison if convicted.
According to the amended criminal complaint, while allegedly abusing the child Dunkle inflicted great bodily injury upon an 18-month-old boy named Knox. “The injury was either intended or the act causing the injury was done with a reckless disregard for the safety of (the victim),” according to court documents.
District Judge Bruce L. Pickett approved the motion by the prosecution to add the felony enhancement to Dunkle’s charge at Tuesday’s arraignment. At the arraignment, Dunkle also pleaded not guilty to the charge and enhancement.
The 18-month-old boy Knox remains hospitalized at Primary Children’s Medical Center after Dunkle allegedly threw, tossed, slapped, shook and dropped the boy. A family friend tells EastIdahoNews.com details of Knox’s recovery are not being shared as court proceedings are still taking place.
The latest update to the GoFundMe Page about Knox’s recovery was made nearly a month ago.
“Knox is starting to improve,” according to the GoFundMe page. “He is able to breath (sic) on his own. He has also started physical therapy. Please still pray for him as he still has a long road ahead of him.”
A jury trial for Dunkle has been scheduled for May 28, at the Bonneville County Courthouse.