DES MOINES, IA – A man already in jail for allegedly assaulting his infant daughter could face more serious charges after the child died from her injuries, authorities said Tuesday.
Dylan James Brown, 23, was taken into custody on Aug. 7 following a distress call from his home involving his 2-month-old daughter, officials said. Deputies with the Polk County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene, where they found the baby unresponsive. Emergency responders rushed her to the hospital, where doctors discovered extensive injuries, including a brain bleed and broken bones.
According to court documents, the infant suffered grave harm after Brown allegedly struck her dozens of times with considerable force. Medical staff reported that she later experienced a stroke and was placed on life support. Despite interventions, the child died in the hospital, prompting authorities to review the charges against Brown.
On the same night as the reported assault, Brown is also accused of attacking the infant’s mother. She was allegedly asleep when she awoke to the sound of Brown hitting the baby. The criminal complaint states that when she tried to intervene, Brown turned violent toward her, striking her and ultimately strangling her from behind until she lost consciousness.
Investigators say Brown then left his partner unconscious as he continued to assault their child. Emergency personnel were called when the mother regained consciousness and contacted authorities.
Following his arrest, Brown was charged with child endangerment, two counts of willful injury causing serious injury, and domestic abuse assault impeding air or blood flow. He has been held in Polk County Jail since his arrest, with bail set at $250,000.
Law enforcement officials say they are coordinating with the county attorney to pursue additional charges in light of the child’s death. The investigation remains ongoing as prosecutors review the case details.
Authorities have not released the names of the child or her mother. No attorney information for Brown was available as of Wednesday.
Neighbors in the area expressed shock at the incident, describing the family as quiet and largely keeping to themselves.
The Polk County Sheriff’s Office has asked anyone with further information to come forward as the case develops.