Washington child assault cases result in charges dropped and new felony filing

In Pierce County, Washington, prosecutors declined to file charges against a 46‑year‑old man accused of pushing a child at the Buckley pump track. The decision cited insufficient evidence, low‑resolution video and conflicting witness statements, concluding that a jury could not be convinced beyond a reasonable doubt.

In Oak Harbor, Washington, Nicholas O. Maines was charged with second‑degree assault of a child after his 5‑week‑old son suffered multiple fractures. Investigators, including the NCIS and Child Protective Services, determined the injuries were consistent with non‑accidental trauma. The felony charge was filed a year after the incident, and an arraignment is scheduled for August 10.