By Breanna Lea/WMBD-TV
OTTAWA – A man in LaSalle County faces murder charges in the death of a 12-day-old baby.
Jeffrey Price of Marseilles was charged with one count of aggravated battery to a child, but the state’s attorney also charged him with three counts of first-degree murder.
“Those alleged that Mr. Price committed the act of first degree murder on the 19th day of June of this year,” said Karen Donnelly, LaSalle County State’s Attorney. “Count 1 was the aggravated battery while the child was still living. We added the 3 additional accounts of murder, you know, in the alternative, after we had found out the child had passed away.”
Price is accused of causing injuries to Ean Mariotto which led to his death. The Peoria County Coroner said the child died of injuries to his head.
Greg Sticka, LaSalle County Assistant State’s Attorney said Price faces up to 60 years in prison for the charge of first-degree murder.
“We are looking into some possible sentencing enhancements,” Sticka said. “Which if found applicable, natural life is not something that’s mandatory for this offense. But it may be something that’s possible if the court were to make certain findings.”
Prosecutors had no comment on Price’s relationship with the baby as it’s an ongoing investigation.
Price’s arraignment is set for July 7.
