An Alden father has pleaded guilty to shaking his baby to the point of unconsciousness.
New York State Police originally responded to the home of Joseph Jurek, 28, on January 7 for a report that the four-month had fallen. The parents took the baby to Oishei Children's Hospital for medical treatment.
Upon evaluation, however, it was determined the child had suffered multiple injuries from being shaken. He is still recovering.
Jurek pleaded guilty before Erie County Court Judge Kenneth Case to two counts of reckless assault of a child. In a separate matter, he also pleaded guilty to criminal possession of marijuana - a felony.
“Not only is Mr. Jurek an irresponsible father, but he is also not the smartest criminal,” said Erie County District Attoryney John Flynn. “He was investigated following a tip from a bank after Mr. Jurek attempted to exchange small bills that smelled of marijuana for larger bills.”
Jurek faces a maximum of seven years in prison when he is sentenced July 5. He remains remanded without bail until then.
