Chapter 14 - The Bat Charge
The bat assault on me became legally straightforward.
Multiple blows.
I was holding Leo.
The attack continued after I backed away.
No serious permanent injury.
Still dangerous.
Valerie eventually pleaded guilty to aggravated assault related to the bat attack and a felony child-abuse count involving conduct that placed Leo at substantial risk of serious bodily harm.
Other overlapping counts were dismissed under the agreement.
She received a multi-year custodial sentence followed by supervised release.
Not life.
Not ten dramatic consecutive sentences.
Several years.
Treatment requirements.
No contact with me during the protected period.
No contact with Leo while incarcerated.
Any later request involving Leo would go through family court.
Dad attended sentencing.
Grandpa wanted to.
His lawyer advised against unnecessary contact.
I did not go.
I had a chemistry exam.
May you like
That decision felt almost rebellious.
Valerie had already taken enough school days from me.
