Upshur County Man Charged with Strangulation, Child Neglect of 4-Month-Old Infant

A 19-year-old from Upshur County was charged with strangulation and child neglect after an alleged incident with an infant.

Upshur County, WV – A 19-year-old man is facing serious charges after authorities say he was caught on video choking and yelling at a 4-month-old infant in a home on Gould Road in French Creek.

According to the Upshur County Sheriff's Department, deputies were alerted to possible child neglect on February 13. During their investigation, they reviewed disturbing footage that allegedly showed Jeremiah Burkhammer aggressively handling the infant.

In the video, Burkhammer is seen picking up the baby before forcefully laying them down. He then grabs a pillow from under the child, throws it onto the bed, and angrily shouts the infant's name, reportedly saying, "You're pissing me the off." Moments later, he is seen picking up the child and tossing them onto the pillow.

Approximately 15 minutes later, Burkhammer is heard yelling at the baby to "take the freakin' bottle" while the infant cries. Deputies say the footage then shows him striking the child's chest and covering the baby's mouth, silencing the cries.

Authorities state that Burkhammer held his hand over the baby's mouth for about 28 seconds, instructing, "Breathe out your nose, not your mouth," as the infant struggled, flailing their arms and legs.

Following the investigation, Burkhammer was arrested and charged with strangulation and gross child neglect creating risk of injury. He is currently being held at Tygart Valley Regional Jail with a bond set at $225,000.

Authorities urge anyone who suspects child abuse or neglect to report it immediately to local law enforcement or child protective services.