Jaravion T. Nichols, a 20-year-old man from Peoria, Illinois, faces charges of aggravated battery to a child after allegedly inflicting severe, non-accidental injuries on his 2-month-old son. The infant arrived at a hospital on December 12, 2025, via private vehicle with critical head trauma, later diagnosed as including multiple brain bleeds, eye bleeding, brain swelling, rib fractures, and leg fractures. Nichols was the sole caregiver during the time the injuries occurred, as confirmed by family interviews, leading to his indictment by a Peoria County grand jury on January 6, 2026, and arrest without bond.​
Investigation Process
Police initiated a criminal probe after medical staff determined the trauma was not accidental, interviewing multiple contacts with no consistent explanation matching the injuries. Search warrants were executed, and further exams revealed extensive abuse evidence. Nichols was detained in the 2000 block of Northeast Jefferson Avenue and held pending a detention hearing.​
Child’s Status
The baby boy survived the incident and remained hospitalized in critical condition as of early January 2026. The investigation continues, with authorities seeking additional public tips. Nichols, identified as the father, is in Peoria County Jail with the state petitioning for detention.​
