January 7, 2026, Peoria, IL - Yesterday, a Peoria County Grand Jury indicted Jaravion T. Nichols, 20, for Aggravated Battery to a child for allegedly physically abusing his two-month-old baby and causing severe head trauma. Nichols is currently in custody, and the State has filed a Petition to Detain Nichols, which a judge will hear tomorrow.

On December 12, 2025, police responded to a local hospital regarding a 2-month-old baby with injuries consistent with abusive head trauma. The treating physicians reported that the baby suffered multiple brain bleeds, bleeding within the eyes, brain swelling, and rib and leg fractures. The physicians stated these injuries were consistent with recent non-accidental trauma.

After speaking with family members, investigators learned that the defendant was the sole person caring for the baby during the time the injuries occurred.

This investigation is ongoing. If anyone has information regarding this incident, please contact the Peoria Police Department at 309-673-4521.

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