Illinois Woman Released After Shocking Allegations of Assault on 6-Year-Old
Marsha R. Dunham, 36, has been released from jail under strict conditions, including a prohibition on contacting children under 18. The Illinois woman was arrested on December 13 for allegedly headbutting a 6-year-old girl and faces felony charges of aggravated battery of a child under 13, as well as two counts of domestic battery.
According to court records, Dunham allegedly caused pain and bodily harm to the child by headbutting her and aggressively pulling her hair in what officials describe as “physical contact of an insulting or provoking nature.” Dunham has pleaded not guilty to the charges and has requested a jury trial, reported by the Independent.
The relationship between Dunham and the alleged victim remains unclear, but the incident prompted the victim’s mother to file an emergency order of protection. During a court hearing on January 7, Ogle County Judge Russell Crull extended the protective order until January 28, as requested by the victim’s mother. Dunham, however, asked the judge, “Can we do it until my criminal case is settled?”
Judge Crull later removed herself from the case due to a conflict of interest, as she had previously represented the victim’s mother in a separate matter as a private defense attorney.
During a subsequent hearing on Thursday, Judge Anthony Peska ruled that Dunham could be released from jail despite opposition from prosecutors. Prosecutors argued that Dunham’s history of domestic battery convictions, including a 2006 case where she pleaded guilty and was sentenced to two years of conditional discharge, posed a risk.
However, Dunham’s defense attorney, Matthew Schuck, successfully argued for her release, provided she adheres to the court’s conditions. These include avoiding contact with children under 18 and complying with the protective order.
The case has drawn significant attention, with questions surrounding Dunham’s past convictions and the safety of the alleged victim. As the legal process unfolds, Dunham faces serious allegations that could have long-term repercussions if she is found guilty.
Dunham’s next court date is set for later this month, where the extended order of protection and her compliance with release conditions will likely be reviewed. The incident has underscored the complexities of handling domestic battery cases, balancing the rights of the accused with the need to protect vulnerable individuals.