Prison for teen who injured toddler

COLUMBUS -- A Columbus teen who admitted shoving a 21-month-old boy into a wall and fracturing his skull in late-September was sentenced Friday in Platte County District Court to 12-16 years in prison.

Quincy Justus, 17, was convicted of child abuse resulting in serious bodily injury in connection with the Sept. 30 incident in which the victim was rushed to Columbus Community Hospital suffering from a skull fracture and brain bleeding.

Justus, who will turn 18 March 22, was tried as an adult.

Justus and his former live-in girlfriend, TIffany Nickolite, 19, were each charged with child abuse in connection with the incident in which Nickolite’s then 21-month-old son was rushed to the hospital.

Nickolite, who is awaiting trial in the case, gave birth to her and Justus’ son Monday.

The victim, whose injuries included a depressed skull fracture, a fracture and bruises and contusions, is currently in foster care in Lincoln. He continues to undergo treatment at Madonna Rehabilitation Hospital.

Child abuse is a Class III felony, punishable by a maximum of 20 years imprisonment, $25,000 fine or both and a minimum of one year imprisonment.