Keshena Man Sentenced to Five Years for Infant Abuse

Derrick M. Corn, 32, of Keshena, received a 60 month federal prison term on December 9 following his conviction for assaulting his six month old child. Chief U.S. District Judge William C. Griesbach noted the severity of the infant's injuries, which included multiple skull fractures and other substantial bodily harm. Corn was also ordered to serve three years of federal supervised release after completing his prison term.

During sentencing the court rejected Corn's explanation that the injuries occurred during a bathtub incident. Medical reports presented at trial undermined that account, and the judge found the evidence supported the conviction and the sentence imposed. The case was investigated by the FBI and the Menominee Tribal Police Department, and prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney's Office, with acting U.S. Attorney Gregory J. Haanstad and Assistant U.S. Attorneys handling the matter.

The conviction and sentence carry direct implications for families and service providers in Menominee County. A case involving severe injury to an infant raises questions about prevention, timely reporting, and the capacity of local systems to protect vulnerable children. The involvement of federal authorities in this prosecution highlights the multiagency response that can follow serious child abuse allegations in our community.

Local law enforcement, medical providers, social services, and tribal authorities will likely remain engaged with the family and with broader efforts to respond to child abuse. The sentence signals that federal prosecutors and the courts view serious injuries to children as matters warranting significant penalties and long term supervision after release. Community leaders and service agencies may use the outcome to review training, reporting pathways, and support networks for at risk families.

For residents of Menominee County the case is a reminder of the consequences of severe child abuse and of the roles that tribal police and federal investigators can play in complex cases. The sentence brings a measure of accountability for the child involved, while also prompting continued attention to prevention, victim support, and the welfare of other children in the community.