Woman Sentenced to 20-30 Years for Child Abuse Death

CROOKSTON, Neb. — A Crookston woman has been sentenced to 20 to 30 years in prison for the death of a 10-month-old infant in her care, according to an announcement by the Nebraska Attorney General.

Aquila Herman, 32, was convicted of intentional child abuse resulting in serious bodily injury, a Class II felony. Cherry County District Court Judge Mark Kozisek imposed the sentence on April 23, 2026.

According to the investigation, Herman was caring for the infant when she called 911 to report the child was unresponsive after allegedly falling from a bed. However, medical evidence and further investigation revealed the injuries were not accidental.

Authorities determined the victim suffered blunt force trauma with multiple injuries to the head and abdomen, including a traumatic brain injury that proved fatal. The case was investigated by the Valentine Police Department and the Cherry County Sheriff's Office and prosecuted by the Nebraska Attorney General's Office.