A Wisconsin man has been charged after prosecutors alleged that he intentionally dropped a toddler from a second-story balcony. Despite the fall, the child survived with only minor injuries.
The incident stemmed from a domestic dispute between 31-year-old Jaimann Eiland and his ex-wife, Shakira Walters. Walters stated that the argument escalated and led to violence, putting their one-year-old daughter, Stormy Walters, in serious danger. A video taken before the incident shows Stormy as a happy and active toddler, unaware of the danger she would soon face.
Shakira Walters expressed anger and disbelief over what happened. She recounted that Eiland had admitted to accidentally knocking Stormy over in the kitchen, which triggered the argument between them. According to the criminal complaint, the dispute turned physical, ultimately resulting in Eiland allegedly choking Walters, striking her, and then throwing or dropping their daughter from the second-story balcony.
Despite the terrifying fall, Stormy only suffered a few bruises. Walters said she was grateful that her daughter survived without serious harm. She also sustained minor injuries herself during the altercation. Reflecting on the situation, Walters stated that if given the chance to go back, she would have tried to de-escalate the conflict before it became physical. She advised others to walk away from similar situations, emphasizing that children are defenseless and can become unintended victims of domestic violence.
Eiland has been charged with substantial battery and physical abuse of a child. He is currently being held on a $15,000 bail. If convicted, he could face a maximum sentence of 12 years in prison.
